Hanro Jacobs came through South Africa's age-grade system from the very start, appearing at the U13 Craven Week and the U16 Grant Khomo Week before being drawn into SA Rugby's Elite Player Development programme. He earned selection for the SA Schools team in the U18 International Series, and in 2019 was named in the Junior Springbok squad for the World Rugby U20 Championship, representing South Africa at U20 level into 2020.
Jacobs made his senior Sharks debut in Round 1 of the 2020 Currie Cup Premier Division against the Pumas, having been included in the squad for Super Rugby Unlocked that same year. Since then the tighthead has become a trusted member of the Sharks' front-row rotation across the Currie Cup, the United Rugby Championship and EPCR competitions.
Recognition has followed: in June 2026 the uncapped prop was named in the first Springbok squad of the year and featured in the SA 'A' matchday squad against Zimbabwe. A first Test cap looks within reach as he enters his prime scrummaging years in black and white.