The early stages of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season are already offering a glimpse into the future for the Chiefs, and for one player in particular: Josh Jacomb. The 24-year-old playmaker, who has signed a two-year deal with the Highlanders beginning in 2027, delivered a composed performance in his first start of the season, deputizing for the absent Damian McKenzie in a hard-fought 19-15 victory over the Blues at Eden Park on Saturday. This season opener showcased Jacomb’s potential, even as his long-term future lies elsewhere.
The situation presents a delicate balance for Chiefs coach Jono Gibbes. While acknowledging the inevitable departure of a talented player, Gibbes has publicly stated his intention to make Jacomb question his decision to join the Highlanders. “My goal is to make him regret his decision every day,” Gibbes said, according to the NZ Herald. “That he loves the Chiefs, he loves the environment, he’s getting awesome coaching. If I can put him in doubt over his decision – because we rate him, we really like where he’s at with his game, I really like the person – I desire to put positive pressure on him, that way.” It’s a bold strategy, aiming to maximize Jacomb’s contribution in his final season with the club while simultaneously fostering a competitive spirit.
A Key Position for the All Blacks
Jacomb’s development is being closely watched not just by the Chiefs and Highlanders, but also by the All Blacks. The first five-eighth position has been a source of debate in New Zealand rugby, with neither Beauden Barrett nor McKenzie fully cementing their place before Richie Mo’unga’s return from Japan. Jacomb, who represented the All Blacks XV in 2024 and 2025, now has an opportunity to push for a spot in the 2027 World Cup squad with consistent Super Rugby playing time. His performance against the Blues offered a promising indication of his readiness.
Against the Blues, Jacomb demonstrated composure beyond his years, kicking a crucial 50-22 that led to the Chiefs’ first try and adding two conversions to his tally. He also contributed defensively with seven tackles and gained 30 running meters with the ball in hand. While not a game-defining performance, it was a solid display that met Gibbes’ expectations. “I think he met expectations, to be honest,” Gibbes said. “He was the Duane Monkley [medal] winner in the NPC, he had great experience with the All Blacks XV in November.”
From Taranaki Standout to Super Rugby Opportunity
Jacomb’s journey to this point has been marked by consistent performance at the provincial level. He first represented Taranaki in the National Provincial Championship in 2021 and was a key figure in their 2023 campaign. His standout form in the 2025 NPC earned him the Duane Monkley Medal, recognizing him as the competition’s most valuable player. He also finished as the second-highest points scorer in the NPC, behind Otago’s Cam Millar, with a remarkable 30-point haul – including a hat-trick of tries – against Auckland, setting a new record for Taranaki in top division play.
Despite his success in the NPC and with the All Blacks XV, Jacomb has found opportunities limited at the Chiefs, largely due to the presence of McKenzie. This lack of consistent game time likely played a role in his decision to seek a fresh start with the Highlanders, where he is expected to be a central figure in their attack. The move, confirmed for 2027, will see him lead the team for at least two seasons, providing him with the platform he needs to further develop his game.
Gibbes’ Vision for 2026
The immediate challenge for both Jacomb and Gibbes is navigating the 2026 season. The Chiefs face the prospect of developing a player who could develop into a key rival in the years to arrive. Gibbes, however, is determined to make the most of the situation, aiming to create an environment where Jacomb thrives and potentially reconsiders his future. “Since January, since he’s been in, he’s continued to progress,” Gibbes noted. “It’s a key position, there’s a lot of responsibility there. Throughout the week, his messaging, his direction he gave the players was really accurate. It wasn’t an armchair for him, that’s for sure. But his growth out of that 80 minutes will be massive.”
The Chiefs’ victory over the Blues, while a positive start to the season, was also a testament to the team’s depth, with Jacomb stepping up admirably in McKenzie’s absence due to paternity leave. It’s a sign, Gibbes believes, of what’s to come as the season progresses. The focus now shifts to building on that momentum and continuing to develop Jacomb’s potential, even as his long-term future lies in Dunedin.
The next key date for the Chiefs is their match against the Crusaders on February 28th, offering another opportunity for Jacomb to showcase his skills and for Gibbes to put his plan into action. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this intriguing situation unfolds throughout the Super Rugby Pacific season.
What are your thoughts on Josh Jacomb’s move to the Highlanders? Share your opinions and predictions in the comments below.
