All Blacks rookie Luke Jacobson is being touted as a future leader in the national side, as he prepares for his first Rugby World Cup, after playing just 10 minutes of test rugby.
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The 22-year-old was named in coach Steve Hansen's 31-man squad for the tournament in Japan next month.
Former All Blacks No. 8 Richard Turner believes Jacobson has all the attributes needed to succeed in the black jersey.
"[His selection] is a reflection of what they see in him," Turner told The Cup 19 podcast. "I think they have him earmarked as a future leader in that team.
"If you watch him play, he's a big bloke and defensively he hits hard - he is one of the best defensive players in this country.
"They like the fact he's young and enthusiastic, and they can mould him into what they want him to be."
Former Tongan international Willie Lose has watched him through age-group teams.
"I was lucky enough to see him play in the U20 World Cup in Georgia," he said. "They won the tournament through his captaincy- he is a class act.
"He is very softly spoken, but he's the type of guy you'd love to go to war with. He's just that type of bloke.
"He commands respect and every time there were decisions to be made, he took ownership," Lose added.
"He's got his feet firmly on the ground - his family are incredible and they're grounded. They understand the pressure."
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The ninth Rugby World Cup kicks off on September 20 in Japan - the first time it has been hosted in Asia.
