20 Questions: Ben Jacobs – Wasps centre
It’s huge. If we win we qualify for the quarter-finals but if we lose they overtake us and we’d definitely have to beat Leinster next week.
Given the draw, did you think you’d be in that position going into the fifth game?
We’re happy we’re in this situation but it’s no surprise to us. We knew it was going to be a tough pool but we had confidence in our squad and the belief we could fare well.
What did you do well last time out to beat them 32-6?
We did the basics right and we capitalised on their mistakes. The bounce of the ball went our way and we finished really well. Playing on a high tempo was key, too.
Can you do it again down in France?
They’ll be gunning for us so it’s going to be a lot tougher. But we’ve got a good squad and we’ll start the game with the belief we can beat them again.
Is there more or less pressure on you because you’ve done so well so far?
We take it game by game but there’s always going to be pressure because it’s the Champions Cup. These are the games you want to be playing and talk about in the future.
How did you approach the Pool of Death?
Go as hard as we can and see where it takes us. It’s worked out pretty well so far so, hopefully, we can keep going and reach the play-offs again.
What did you make of the Worcester game last weekend?
It wasn’t our prettiest game of the season but our determination to win got us home in the end. That’s what we’ll take out of it, our desire to keep going until the very last minute.
How important was it to win after a tough six weeks?
We pride ourselves on being a tough team to beat at the Ricoh Arena and it’d been disappointing to lose our last three games there. Beating Worcester has brought a bit of confidence back before the two Champions Cup games.
What do you read into the praise you get personally?
It’s always good to be praised for what you do but I’m just focusing on my role in the team. If we’re winning I’m happy.
What’s your role in that exciting Wasps backline?
I’m the old head in a young team. We have so much speed out wide so my job is to get them into space. In defence, I try to organise the line and make sure we’re all on the same page.
Happy to leave the glory to Elliot Daly then?
Of course! I’m more than happy for Elliot or the other youngsters to get the praise. It doesn’t bother me to see them score. All that matters to me is winning the game.
Pleased for Elliot in making the England EPS squad?
It’s more than deserved. He’s a fantastic player and I’m looking forward to see what he can do in the Six Nations. But I always remind him that he’s where he is because of me!
Is he ready for Test rugby?
Definitely! I remember him when he first broke into the team while still at school and you could see he was special. Consistency is what he needed to improve and he’s done that for over a year now. He’s only 23 but he’s got a lot of experience already.
Second stint at the club?
I didn’t think I was ever going to play for Wasps again when I left to go to Japan in 2011. I then went back to Australia to play for the Force and Dai Young gave me a call.
Favourite cheat meal?
I’m one of those lucky guys who can eat whatever I want without putting the weight on. I still try to eat well but I tend to crave junk food after a game and I usually go for burger and chips.
If not rugby, what would you be doing?
I love travelling so I’d probably be on a beach in Brazil selling beer or in America. I also enjoy coaching.
Is that something you’ll pursue after rugby?
Maybe. I’m not involved officially with the academy but I enjoy teaching the teenagers coming through.
Three dinner guests?
Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods and Will Ferrell.
Best and worst banter at Wasps?
Elliot and Joe Simpson love a practical joke. The class clown is Edd Shervington but Alex Rieder is the worst.
Best and worst dressed?
The Italian stallion Andrea Masi has to be the best but James Cannon is the worst. Trousers are never long enough and his shoes look like clown shoes.
