All Blacks coach Steve Hansen paid tribute to the Munster legend, who passed away in Paris last month.
The All Blacks named an imposing XV to face Joe Schmidt’s Ireland at Soldier Field this weekend but Hansen had a couple of things he wanted to say before he took questions.
Hansen congratulated local baseball team the Chicago Cubs on their World Series triumph, in Cleveland last night, and remarked that Ireland, who are 111 years winless against his country, may take heart from the precedent.
"To be able to win something after 108 years is pretty special" – @AllBlacks coach Steve Hansen on @Cubs epic win last night
— Pat McCarry (@patmccarry) November 3, 2016
Hansen also took time to express his condolences to the Foley family and all involved with Munster and Irish rugby. He said:
“On a more sombre note, we’d like to convey a message of sympathy and best wishes to the Foley family on the death of Anthony.
“It was a terrible tragedy and one that was felt across the world. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”
Hansen described Foley as a good player who gained the respect of a lot of ‘Kiwi boys’ he coached at Munster.
Asked what he is expecting from Ireland on Saturday, Hansen said:
“A real physical encounter. One where they will kick the ball a fair bit.”
As for the team named earlier in the day, Hansen expressed full faith in Jerome Kaino in the second row and backed blindside Liam Squire to make an impact at the weekend.
NEW ZEALAND
1. Joe Moody (20)
2. Dane Coles (46)
3. Owen Franks (87)
4. Patrick Tuipulotu (10)
5. Jerome Kaino (75)
6. Liam Squire (6)
7. Sam Cane (37)
8. Kieran Read – captain (94)
9. Aaron Smith (54)
10. Beauden Barrett (46)
11. Julian Savea (49)
12. Ryan Crotty (24)
13. George Moala (3)
14. Waisake Naholo (8)
15. Ben Smith (58)
Ireland take on New Zealand from 3pm [8pm Irish time] at Soldier Field on Saturday.
Colm O’Rourke and Pauric Mahony join Colm Parkinson on a packed GAA Hour that includes Dick Clerkin appreciation and Sean Cavanagh envy. Subscribe here on iTunes.
