Lomax Poised for Western Force Debut as Rugby Union Journey Begins
Former NRL star Zac Lomax is on the cusp of his Super Rugby debut, with the Western Force reportedly considering unleashing the talented playmaker in their upcoming clash against the Queensland Reds in Brisbane. Lomax, who has been diligently immersing himself in the nuances of rugby union since his junior school days, is backing his ability to adapt swiftly to the 15-man code. This bold move is underpinned by a clear ambition: to press for selection in the Wallabies squad for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, to be hosted on Australian soil.
Lomax’s initial foray into professional rugby union will be with the Western Force. His maiden appearance could come as early as this Saturday at Suncorp Stadium against the Reds, or potentially in the following week’s fixture against the Fijian Drua in Suva.
Force coach Simon Cron indicated that the decision to allow Lomax to participate in the pre-game warm-up before their recent 24-14 loss to the Chiefs in Perth was a deliberate step to provide him with a taste of the match-day environment. “That’s the thinking, give him a taste,” Cron commented on the decision. Following the match, Lomax was also present in the coach’s box, engaging in discussions about the game and gaining a deeper understanding of the team’s dynamics and strategies.
Cron expressed his optimism about Lomax’s potential impact on the team. “I think he will be a great addition for us in the team,” he stated. “He’s a big, strong body. He’s a pretty dominant human, which probably at times we need.”
Lomax himself described the experience of warming up with his new teammates as “exciting” and has been actively preparing for a likely role on the wing once he makes his official debut. He likened his current learning process to that of a sponge, absorbing information daily. “I’m like a sponge in there learning every day,” Lomax told Stan. “It’s exciting, it’s fresh, I love it.”
While Lomax has been focusing extensively on the wing position, which he finds comes more naturally, he remains open to other backline roles. “I haven’t done too much at fullback. But anywhere in the backs, I’m not too fussed,” he added. He acknowledges that adjusting to the rucks presents a new challenge but is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to implement his kicking game.
The Western Force currently find themselves in a precarious position on the Super Rugby ladder, sitting second-to-last with only one victory from their opening six matches. Adding to their concerns, star flanker Carlo Tizzano is now in doubt for the upcoming Reds encounter. Tizzano was substituted at halftime during the Chiefs match due to a knee injury and was later seen wearing a brace on his left knee. Further medical assessments will be crucial in determining his availability.
Cron provided some insight into the injury. “I think he got cleaned out in one of those breakdowns, and it’s a little bit of mobility in the knee,” he explained. “They’ve just put him in the brace for precaution, and we’ll obviously go through the process medically as to how he pulls up.” The team’s depth will be tested as they prepare to face a formidable Reds outfit.
