Disappointment for Luke

Hautapu, Waikato and Chiefs loose forward Luke Jacobson has been dealt a crushing blow just a week out from the All Blacks opening match of the Rugby World Cup — he will miss the tournament after suffering a delayed onset of concussion from the test against Tonga in Hamilton.

Highlanders flanker Shannon Frizell has been called up to replace Jacobson, after he developed concussion symptoms in the All Blacks’ first training session in Japan.

All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen said the 22-year-old had not presented with any signs of concussion after the Tonga game last week, but they presented upon arrival in Japan.

“After discussing this latest episode with Luke, as well as our medical team, the decision has been made to, sadly, withdraw him from the tournament,” said hansen.

“We all felt that the best thing for him to do is to take a break from rugby until he is symptom-free and ready to return to rugby.

“While it was a tough conversation to have, ultimately it was a very simple decision. We have a duty of care to look after our players and Luke’s health is the most important thing above anything else.

“Luke’s a young man with a hugely promising career ahead of him and I’m sure he’ll get the chance to play at other Rugby World Cups in the future.”

Jacobson, who was one of the bolters in the World Cup squad, said he understood the decision, despite his disappointment.

“I’m gutted to be missing the Rugby World Cup.

“However, I completely understand that this decision has been made with my health and best interests at heart.

“While I’m feeling 98 per cent okay, I know I’m still not quite right and by taking a break now, I’ll give myself the opportunity to continue my career in the future. I wish the team all the very best and will be with them all the way.”

Jacobson will stay with the team until he is symptom-free and can fly home.

Frizell, who has played five tests for the All Blacks, the last in July against South Africa, will arrive in Japan on Saturday.

Hansen revealed loose forwards Vaea Fifita and Dalton Papalii weren’t considered for selection because they are currently injured.

Photo / Photosport Photo / Mark Mitchell All Black loose forward Luke Jacobson is ruled out of the Rugby World Cup before the tournament starts. Springboks halfback Herschel Jantjies hangs on to a charging All Black flanker Shannon Frizell during their Investec Rugby Championship test match at Westpac Stadium in Wellington in July.