Days before the All Blacks’ first game at the Rugby World Cup, former head coach Ian Foster’s wife, Leigh, and daughter, Michaela, faced a menacing situation when they were accosted by a man armed with a knife in Paris.
The unsettling encounter unfolded near the All Blacks’ hotel, situated on the outskirts of the city, an area known for its less-than-savoury reputation. Fortunately, the pair escaped the attempted mugging unscathed, though the ordeal left them deeply shaken, as reported by 1News.
While it remains unclear whether an official complaint was filed with the authorities, security concerns loomed large at the World Cup, and the All Blacks, like all 20 participating teams, were provided with substantial police protection throughout the tournament.
In response to the incident, All Blacks management issued a general warning to players and accompanying personnel, advising against venturing out alone after nightfall. Despite the off-field issues, Foster, who has now been succeeded by Scott Robertson as head coach, maintained a composed and consistent demeanour in front of the media during the tournament.
The All Blacks’ journey to the final included a remarkable 28-24 quarter-final victory over Ireland. After a comprehensive 44-6 semifinal win against Argentina, they eventually fell at the final hurdle, losing to South Africa 12-11.
