Hamilton, New Zealand – Chiefs coach Jono Gibbes has issued a stark challenge to departing playmaker Josh Jacomb, vowing to make the talented first-five question his decision to join the Highlanders in 2027. The move, confirmed by multiple sources, sees Jacomb commit to a two-year deal with the Dunedin-based franchise after his contract with the Chiefs concludes.
The situation presents a complex dilemma for the Chiefs, who must now navigate developing Jacomb’s potential in the short term while knowing he will become a key rival in Super Rugby Pacific. Gibbes acknowledged the delicate balance, stating his intention to maximize Jacomb’s contribution in 2026 and, potentially, sway his long-term commitment. “My goal is to make him regret his decision every day,” Gibbes said. “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 want to put positive pressure on him, that way.”
Jacomb’s departure is a significant development for New Zealand rugby, particularly given the ongoing search for consistent excellence at the fly-half position for the All Blacks. With Richie Mo’unga returning from Japan, the competition for the No. 10 jersey is fierce, but Jacomb’s potential, already recognized with appearances for the All Blacks XV in 2024 and 2025, makes him a player to watch. Regular Super Rugby minutes, something limited at the Chiefs due to the presence of All Blacks star Damian McKenzie, are crucial for his development.
The Highlanders, coached by Jamie Joseph, have offered Jacomb the opportunity to lead their attack, a role he appears eager to embrace. The signing is seen as a major boost for the Highlanders, who have been seeking a long-term solution at fly-half since the departure of Lima Sopoaga. Jacomb’s decision stems from a desire for more consistent playing time, a factor that ultimately outweighed the benefits of remaining with the Chiefs.
The Chiefs got a glimpse of what Jacomb could bring against them on Saturday night, in a hard-fought 19-15 victory over the Blues at Eden Park to open their season. While the win wasn’t built on individual brilliance from Jacomb, the 24-year-old demonstrated composure in deputizing for McKenzie, who was absent on paternity leave. In 80 minutes, Jacomb kicked a vital 50-22 that led to the Chiefs’ first try, converted two tries, made seven tackles, and gained 30 running meters with the ball in hand.
Gibbes was pleased with Jacomb’s performance, stating, “I think he met expectations, to be honest.” He highlighted Jacomb’s previous success, noting he was the Duane Monkley medal winner in the NPC and had gained valuable experience with the All Blacks XV in November. “Since January, since he’s been in, he’s continued to progress. 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 move to the Highlanders, set for 2027, allows Jacomb to potentially establish himself as a premier playmaker in Super Rugby Pacific. The Highlanders will be looking to build their attack around him, offering him the consistent game time he seeks. This development is particularly significant given the depth, or perceived lack thereof, at first-five eighth in New Zealand rugby. Players like Stephen Perofeta, Brett Cameron, Harry Godfrey, Taha Kemara, Rivez Reihana, and Kaleb Trask are all vying for opportunities, but Jacomb’s potential has clearly impressed both the Highlanders and, despite the current situation, the Chiefs.
The opening round of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season saw the defending champion Crusaders travel to Dunedin to face the Highlanders on . While the Chiefs secured a victory over the Blues, the looming presence of Jacomb as a future opponent adds another layer of intrigue to the competition. The season promises to be a showcase for emerging talent, and Jacomb’s journey will be closely watched as he aims to solidify his place among the elite fly-halves in New Zealand rugby and potentially push for a spot in the All Blacks squad for the 2027 World Cup.
For Gibbes, the challenge now is to maximize Jacomb’s contribution in 2026, knowing that he is, in effect, developing a player who could become a key rival in the years to come. The Chiefs coach’s bold declaration – to make Jacomb regret his decision – underscores the high regard in which he holds the young playmaker and his determination to retain his services, even if only for one more season.
