Jacobson's career has been marked by injuries, but he has stood out under Rennie's leadership, leaving behind the legacy of former coaches like Sir Steve Hansen, Ian Foster, and Scott Robertson. He's been a constant presence, wearing the number seven jersey during the Nations Championship and continuing in the same vein through the ongoing Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Series.
“I love physical games and physical confrontations. The South Africans, they’re big physical bodies; there’s no hiding from that. So, it’s a real good test. One of the hardest Tests you will get, I think, as a rugby player is playing against South Africa – physically. It’s a good place to see where you’re at. I wasn’t overly happy with some of my collisions from the last game. So, looking to get a few of those right for this Test.”
The All Blacks have not toured South Africa for a Test series in three decades, and Jacobson treasures the rare opportunity to engage the Springboks across three consecutive weeks. This series arrangement allows for unique preparation dynamics, where the All Blacks can streamline their strategy based on immediate past encounters with their formidable opponents.
"Facing the Springboks, you're up against strategic tweaks designed to catch you off guard, but our approach is to stick with our system, hoping it covers any new challenges they bring," Jacobson commented on the preparation process.
Moreover, this series prompts minor adjustments on the All Blacks' part too, aiming to outmaneuver the South African team in each encounter. It's a delicate balance of maintaining core strategies while integrating small, impactful changes.
Jacobson also reflected on the significance of the series, noting its special place in the hearts of many former players who have expressed a wish to come out of retirement just to participate in this high-stakes rivalry.
"Yeah, there’s been a lot of talk from ex-players about how if there was one series that they would want to play and come out of retirement for, it would be this one, and I think it just goes to say the respect that New Zealand has for South Africa and vice versa. The level that these games are played at is on another level, and you get to do it four times in a row."
Jacobson emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and fully appreciating the opportunity. It's about soaking in the experience, cherishing every game, and hoping that their efforts culminate in victories that make all the hard work worthwhile.
As the All Blacks target the Springboks' top spot in world rankings, each match in this historic series is not just a game but a chapter in the rich narrative of rugby's greatest rivalries. Jacobson, along with his teammates, aims to leave a mark that remembers not just for its scores, but for the spirit and passion evident in every play.
