Four Nations final: Josh Jackson hails Des Hasler for his stunning rise to rugby league elite Josh Jackson at Sydney Airport as the Kangaroos prepare to fly to Wellington for the Four Nations Final. HE played in an NRL grand final this year, made his Test debut, was part of the extended Blues winning squad and now looks set to play a Four Nations final. It has been some season for Kangaroos and Canterbury forward Josh Jackson. And Jackson wants it known how one man helped achieve his goals - Doggies coach Des Hasler. I can't say a bad word about Des - he has given me the opportunity and he is a big part of why am I here. I am very grateful," Jackson said on Monday before the Kangaroos flew to Wellington. Asked what made Hasler such a special coach, Jackson said: "He is really intense around footy stuff but I guess when you're not talking about footy, he is a laid-back sort of guy. He worries about the individual, not just the footy player. When you do that, you get the best out of your players. He keeps people happy away from the field. Des puts a fair bit of effort into that ... player-management and keeping people happy. He has stuck by me. It has been a massive year for me personally. What else can I say? Jackson made his Test debut in Australia's 44-18 win over Samoa in Wollongong. He was strong and powerful and would be unlucky to be dropped for the final, although forward Beau Scott is expected to return from injury. "You just have to sit back and pinch yourself," Jackson said. When I got off the field, it was a bit surreal, you've just played a Test match. It was very humbling experience. (Sunday) was a massive day and to get the win was very, very good. To be part of this squad from week one will be something I always remember. Originally published as Jackson hails Hasler for stunning rise