All Blacks back-row inks new Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby deal
Luke Jacobson on the charge for New Zealand against Uruguay during the Rugby World Cup in France.
All Blacks back-row Luke Jacobson has signed a new contract with New Zealand Rugby (NZR), the Chiefs and Waikato through until the 2025 season.
Jacobson was a regular in the Chiefs’ starting line-up and played a key role in their run to this year’s Super Rugby Pacific Final where they lost to the Crusaders.
Part of All Blacks’ Rugby World Cup squad
His excellent form was rewarded with a call-up to the All Blacks‘ 33-man squad for their recent Rugby World Cup campaign in France.
Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan expressed his delight at the 18-Test All Black’s decision to recommit to the Hamilton-based franchise for two more seasons.
“Luke is an outstanding player; he’s a workhorse, a consistent performer and considered a real warrior within our group,” McMillan told the Chiefs’ official website.
“Luke leads by example both on and off the field. He isn’t one to waste words and prefers to let his actions speak for themself.
“In the absence of some senior players who have moved on, I have no doubt Luke will play an integral part providing the leadership and guidance our younger players will be looking for.”
Jacobson has done well throughout his career, representing the New Zealand U20 team twice and leading them in his second season to an U20 World Championship title in 2017.
A natural leader, the 26-year-old has impressed when wearing Chiefs captain’s armband on multiple occasions.
Meanwhile, Waikato Rugby head coach Ross Filipo is excited that Jacobson will continue his career with his team in New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship.
“He is a great man and a great leader who continues to make huge contributions on and off the field and always represents the region with pride,” said Filipo.
Happy to sign new deal
Speaking on his signing, Jacobson said: “I’m stoked to signing on with the Chiefs, Waikato Rugby, and NZR for another two years. I love representing these teams and am very proud to be able to call myself a Waikato/Chiefs man and also and All Black.
“I’m hungry to succeed with these teams and tick off a few unticked boxes.”
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