Discarded halfback TJ Perenara has delivered a short, but resolute response to his omission from the All Blacks for their test series against Ireland in July.
The 78-capped veteran was one of the more notable omissions, alongside Chiefs No.9 Brad Weber and Highlanders prop Ethan de Groot.
Foster opted for more youth to balance the vast experience of Aaron Smith, with the in-form Finlay Christie and uncapped Folau Fakatava chosen as understudies.
Perenara shared a simple, but tenacious message on social media after the announcement, with just a 'BRB' (be right back) on a black background posted to his Instagram story.
The 30-year-old won't have to wait long to impress Foster and selectors, and should be named in the Māori All Blacks squad to play Ireland on June 29 and July 12.
Foster admits the position prompted the most discussion, but he wanted to give the younger halfbacks an extended opportunity to impress, as they build for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
"We spent a lot of time on the nines and the front row - they were the two main ones that caused most debate," he said.
"Particularly in the nines, in our opinion, we had five nines playing really well and offered something different.
"This is a really good chance to see what Folau and Finlay can bring, and we like what we see and it's a good opportunity.
"I'm not going to talk about those specific conversations in detail, but I had nine conversations yesterday with All Blacks of last year who weren't named today and they were really tough.
"They're great men and you can feel the passion on the end of the phone call. Each has a desire to get back in here and we have to make sure that we're part of that plan to give them that direction that they need.
"A lot of hurt, no doubt."
Perenara could also earn a late call-up, with Smith still doubtful for the first test with a groin injury that ruled him out of the Highlanders' Super Rugby Pacific quarter-final loss to the Blues.
Foster concedes Smith's injury is a concern, but they won't know until the squad assembles.
"We hope so, his groin is still a bit niggly," he said. "Him and Jordie [Barrett] are both 50/50, but we won't know for sure until we get our hands on him."
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