Western Force Coach Simon Cron Heaps Praise on Zac Lomax Ahead of Likely Debut
Western Force coach Simon Cron has expressed high praise for Zac Lomax, describing the star recruit as a "consummate professional" as he prepares for his anticipated debut with the club. Lomax, who joined the Force last month, is set to make his union bow in the upcoming match against Fijian Drua in Lautoka, Fiji, this Saturday.
Lomax's Journey to Debut
Lomax was initially slated to debut last week against the Queensland Reds but was withdrawn due to hamstring tightness. Despite this setback, Cron remains confident in Lomax's readiness and impact. "On the Thursday last week, he obviously tightened up, but he's got through all the training's. He's looking good," Cron stated. Lomax has been named on the bench for the Fiji clash, with his playing minutes to be determined by the game's progression.
Cron emphasized Lomax's professionalism, noting, "He's been the consummate professional for the whole time he's been here. From the moment he arrived right up until captain's run today, he's been constantly focused on what he needs to do be at his best and how to do that within the team environment. I can't fault him." He added that Lomax's experience from his NRL background will be evident on the field.
Injury Updates and Team Resilience
The Force are dealing with a 10-player injury list, including key absences like Wallabies flanker Carlo Tizzano. Cron provided updates on other players: Tom Robertson (concussion) and Darcy Swain (illness) are expected to return soon, but the loss of in-form winger Darby Lancaster is more concerning. Cron described Lancaster's injury as "gutting," noting it requires further scans and a medium-term recovery timeline.
Despite these challenges, Cron highlighted the team's improved depth and resilience. "It'd be fatal for us to have that injury toll last year. At the moment, it's a really good sign of the rest of the team's depth and the ability to be able to move guys into positions that can handle Super Rugby," he said. This adaptability has been a key growth area for the Force this season.
Conditions in Fiji
After Fiji experienced a cyclone earlier in the week, Cron reported that conditions have returned to normal. "It sounds like it was pretty solid, but it's blown through. It's hot, it's sunny, it's humid, so it's Fiji. It's not too bad," he commented, indicating the team is prepared for the typical Pacific weather.
As the Force gear up for their match, all eyes will be on Lomax as he aims to make a strong first impression in Super Rugby, backed by his coach's unwavering confidence and praise.
