In a bold cross-code raid, Rugby Australia has successfully signed NRL sensation Zac Lomax on a two-year deal with an immediate effect, pulling him into the rugby union fold with the Western Force. Lomax, who has racked up 133 appearances in the NRL featuring for St. George Illawarra and Parramatta Eels, and also boasting caps for New South Wales and Australia, is set to bring his athletic prowess to the 15-man game.
Lomax, originally a winger in league, had previously exited a three-year stint with Parramatta amidst speculation of joining the now-delayed rebel league, R360. This shift promises a fresh start in Perth where he is expected to slot into an outside back or midfield role. With the Western Force currently gearing up for a Super Rugby Pacific clash in Napier, Lomax's debut could light up the field as early as March 28 against the Chiefs in Perth, following a bye week.
"I’m incredibly excited and thankful to be joining the Western Force," Lomax stated. "This is a huge opportunity and a challenge I’m really looking forward to embracing. The chance to test myself at the highest level of rugby union is something that really excites me."
Rugby Australia's CEO, Phil Waugh, highlighted Lomax's elite sportsmanship and his potential impact on union. "Zac is a superb athlete with a proven track record at representative level in rugby league and we believe he has the talent and drive to make a successful transition to rugby," Waugh expressed.
Simon Cron, head coach of the Force, also praised Lomax’s enthusiasm and potential. "Zac and Kayla came to Perth late last year and we spent some time together talking about the Force and how we want to play," Cron recalled. "He has remained in contact during the process and has always been extremely enthusiastic about the opportunity."
"Anyone who has seen Zac play knows what he will add. Combine that with his drive and professionalism and I have no doubt he will be extremely successful," added Cron.
This strategic acquisition not only enhances the Western Force's lineup but also sets the stage for Lomax to possibly feature in the Wallabies squad as they build towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home soil. Meanwhile, the rugby landscape continues to evolve as other notable NRL players like Angus Crichton and ex-Wallaby Mark Nawaqanitawase are also making their transitions into union, promising an exciting phase for Australian rugby.
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In a bold cross-code raid, Rugby Australia has successfully signed NRL sensation Zac Lomax on a two-year deal with an immediate effect, pulling him into the rugby union fold with the Western Force. Lomax, who has racked up 133 appearances in the NRL featuring for St. George Illawarra and Parramatta Eels, and also boasting caps for New South Wales and Australia, is set to bring his athletic prowess to the 15-man game.
Lomax, originally a winger in league, had previously exited a three-year stint with Parramatta amidst speculation of joining the now-delayed rebel league, R360. This shift promises a fresh start in Perth where he is expected to slot into an outside back or midfield role. With the Western Force currently gearing up for a Super Rugby Pacific clash in Napier, Lomax's debut could light up the field as early as March 28 against the Chiefs in Perth, following a bye week.
"I’m incredibly excited and thankful to be joining the Western Force," Lomax stated. "This is a huge opportunity and a challenge I’m really looking forward to embracing. The chance to test myself at the highest level of rugby union is something that really excites me."
Rugby Australia's CEO, Phil Waugh, highlighted Lomax's elite sportsmanship and his potential impact on union. "Zac is a superb athlete with a proven track record at representative level in rugby league and we believe he has the talent and drive to make a successful transition to rugby," Waugh expressed.
Simon Cron, head coach of the Force, also praised Lomax’s enthusiasm and potential. "Zac and Kayla came to Perth late last year and we spent some time together talking about the Force and how we want to play," Cron recalled. "He has remained in contact during the process and has always been extremely enthusiastic about the opportunity."
"Anyone who has seen Zac play knows what he will add. Combine that with his drive and professionalism and I have no doubt he will be extremely successful," added Cron.
This strategic acquisition not only enhances the Western Force's lineup but also sets the stage for Lomax to possibly feature in the Wallabies squad as they build towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home soil. Meanwhile, the rugby landscape continues to evolve as other notable NRL players like Angus Crichton and ex-Wallaby Mark Nawaqanitawase are also making their transitions into union, promising an exciting phase for Australian rugby.