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Foster and Plumtree are in solitary confinement at home and the two infected players, David Havili and Jack Goodhue, two midfielders, did not join their team in Auckland before the start of a series of test matches on Saturday.

Anti-Covid rules oblige people who test positive to seven days of isolation from the day the symptoms were detected.

This should keep the experienced pair Havili-Goodhue off the field on Saturday at Eden Park, although the date of the start of their period of isolation remains uncertain.

Ian Foster nevertheless said he was certain, in a press release, of his team's ability to prepare without him or his assistant.

"We had prepared for this kind of eventuality, and there is a great opportunity for the extended coaching staff and the most experienced players, who will be particularly motivated," he said.

“We have learned to deal with the unexpected, like everyone else for two years. I will continue to work with the coaches and the team via Zoom and I have full confidence in the group of coaches and players. he added.

© 2022 AFP