Zac Lomax Secures New Path with Western Force After NRL Exit
In a significant career shift, former NRL standout Zac Lomax has officially joined the Western Force, marking his transition to rugby union. The 26-year-old has signed a two-year contract with the Perth-based Super Rugby Pacific team, ending a tumultuous period of uncertainty following his departure from the National Rugby League.
Legal Battles and a Fresh Start in Rugby Union
Lomax's move comes after a three-month saga that saw him embroiled in a legal dispute with the Parramatta Eels. He had initially left the NRL with one year remaining on a substantial contract to join the rebel Rugby 360 competition, but when that league delayed its start until 2026, he was left without a club. Attempts to return to the NRL with the Melbourne Storm were blocked by Parramatta, leading to a New South Wales Supreme Court case that was eventually settled, with Lomax agreeing not to join another NRL team without the Eels' consent.
"This is a huge opportunity and a challenge I'm really looking forward to embracing," Lomax said. "Stepping into a new code will push me as a player and that's something that genuinely motivates me. The chance to be part of what the Western Force are building and to test myself at the highest level of rugby union is something that really excites me."
Impressive Rugby League Background and Union Aspirations
With 133 NRL games, 58 tries, and six State of Origin appearances for New South Wales over the past two years, Lomax brings a proven track record to the Force. His switch is part of Rugby Australia's strategy to bolster its ranks ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home soil. Lomax expressed ambition to potentially represent the Wallabies, stating, "Like any player, the dream of one day representing the Wallabies on a truly international stage and potentially competing at a Rugby World Cup is a powerful motivation."
Western Force coach Simon Cron praised Lomax's professionalism and enthusiasm, noting, "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." Lomax had previously visited Perth in December to meet with the Force and also spoke with the Brumbies before finalizing his decision.
Positional Challenges and Team Impact
As Lomax adapts to rugby union, key questions arise about his role within the Force. The team boasts experienced wingers like George Bridge, Darby Lancaster, and Dylan Pietsch, but Lomax could be utilized at outside centre, where his physicality might provide much-needed midfield strength. However, his readiness for the defensive demands of that position remains uncertain.
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh highlighted the broader significance of the signing, saying, "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. He brings a unique set of experiences and skills to our environment and is motivated by the challenge of competing in a truly global sport."
Peter Horne, Rugby Australia's Director of High Performance, added, "Building depth across Australian Rugby has been a priority as we build towards next year's home Rugby World Cup and the addition of Zac is a positive development for our system. Zac is embracing the challenge of playing a new code, albeit one he has played before at a junior level, and the opportunity to take his talents to a worldwide audience."
This signing not only offers Lomax a fresh start but also injects excitement into the Western Force's campaign as they aim to improve their performance in the Super Rugby Pacific season.
