As the Super Rugby Pacific progresses into its eighth round, the spotlight shines on two significant player milestones that encapsulate the enduring spirit and evolving narratives of the game. Former NRL standout Zac Lomax is poised to make a much-anticipated rugby union debut for the Western Force, while veteran All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor is set to celebrate his 150th appearance for the Crusaders, marking a storied career in the sport.
Zac Lomax, previously known for his exploits in the NRL, has transitioned to rugby union, joining the Western Force under a two-year deal with Rugby Australia. Initially slated to debut last week, unforeseen circumstances delayed his appearance. This weekend, however, Lomax will finally grace the field from the replacements bench as the Force face off against the Reds in Brisbane. Western Force’s head coach, Simon Cron, expressed his enthusiasm for Lomax's upcoming debut, stating, “We are thrilled to see Zac bring his skills to the union format. His adaptability and athleticism are expected to shine in his new role.”
"We are thrilled to see Zac bring his skills to the union format. His adaptability and athleticism are expected to shine in his new role."
Meanwhile, in Christchurch, a seasoned warrior of the field, Codie Taylor, will don the Crusaders jersey for the 150th time. As the Crusaders prepare to host the Fijian Drua, the significance of Taylor’s contribution to the team and the tournament at large is palpable. This milestone is a testament to his resilience, skill, and leadership over the years.
The weekend's fixtures commence with the Crusaders and Fijian Drua clashing in Christchurch, followed by the Chiefs and Waratahs in Hamilton. Each match not only offers high stakes competition but also personal stories of perseverance and achievement that resonate well beyond the scoreboard.
As we look forward to the action, here’s how the teams line up:
Crusaders: Will Jordan (c), Chay Fihaki, Leicester Fainga’anuku, Dallas McLeod, Sevu Reece, Taha Kemara, Noah Hotham, Christian Lio-Willie, Johnny Lee, Corey Kellow, Jamie Hannah, Antonio Shalfoon, Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor, George Bower. Replacements: George Bell, Jack Sexton, Seb Calder, Tahlor Cahill, Dom Gardiner, Louie Chapman, Rivez Reihana, Braydon Ennor.
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As the Super Rugby Pacific progresses into its eighth round, the spotlight shines on two significant player milestones that encapsulate the enduring spirit and evolving narratives of the game. Former NRL standout Zac Lomax is poised to make a much-anticipated rugby union debut for the Western Force, while veteran All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor is set to celebrate his 150th appearance for the Crusaders, marking a storied career in the sport.
Zac Lomax, previously known for his exploits in the NRL, has transitioned to rugby union, joining the Western Force under a two-year deal with Rugby Australia. Initially slated to debut last week, unforeseen circumstances delayed his appearance. This weekend, however, Lomax will finally grace the field from the replacements bench as the Force face off against the Reds in Brisbane. Western Force’s head coach, Simon Cron, expressed his enthusiasm for Lomax's upcoming debut, stating, “We are thrilled to see Zac bring his skills to the union format. His adaptability and athleticism are expected to shine in his new role.”
"We are thrilled to see Zac bring his skills to the union format. His adaptability and athleticism are expected to shine in his new role."
Meanwhile, in Christchurch, a seasoned warrior of the field, Codie Taylor, will don the Crusaders jersey for the 150th time. As the Crusaders prepare to host the Fijian Drua, the significance of Taylor’s contribution to the team and the tournament at large is palpable. This milestone is a testament to his resilience, skill, and leadership over the years.
The weekend's fixtures commence with the Crusaders and Fijian Drua clashing in Christchurch, followed by the Chiefs and Waratahs in Hamilton. Each match not only offers high stakes competition but also personal stories of perseverance and achievement that resonate well beyond the scoreboard.
As we look forward to the action, here’s how the teams line up:
Crusaders: Will Jordan (c), Chay Fihaki, Leicester Fainga’anuku, Dallas McLeod, Sevu Reece, Taha Kemara, Noah Hotham, Christian Lio-Willie, Johnny Lee, Corey Kellow, Jamie Hannah, Antonio Shalfoon, Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor, George Bower. Replacements: George Bell, Jack Sexton, Seb Calder, Tahlor Cahill, Dom Gardiner, Louie Chapman, Rivez Reihana, Braydon Ennor.
Drua: Iliasia Droasese, Joji Nasova, Virimi Vakatawa, Iosefo Namoce, Manasa Mataele, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Elia Canakaivata, Kitione Salawa, Etonia Waqa, Isoa Nasilasila (c), Joseva Tamani, Mesake Doge, Zuriel Togiatama, Haereiti Hetet. Replacements: Sairusi Ravudi, Emosi Tuqiri, Peni Ravai, Mesake Vocevoce, Isoa Tuwai, Phillip Baselala, Kemu Valetini, Isikeli Rabitu.
Chiefs: Liam Coombes-Fabling, Emoni Narawa, Leroy Carter, Quinn Tupaea, Kyren Taumoefolau, Josh Jacomb, Xavier Roe, Kaylum Boshier, Luke Jacobson (c), Samipeni Finau, Tupou Vaa’i, Josh Lord, Reuben O’Neill, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Ollie Norris. Replacements: Brodie McAlister, Jared Profitt,