Former Eel and Kangaroo Zac Lomax could make his Super Rugby Pacific as early as this month after switching codes to join the Western Force on a two-year deal.
The 26-year-old joins from Parramatta after 133 games in the NRL, State of Origin and for the Kangaroos.
Lomax will join the team in Perth after they return from playing the Hurricanes in Wellington, New Zealand after a three-week road trip.
He could play for the Force as early as round seven, against the Waikato-based Chiefs, on March 28, the rugby.com.au website reports.
He may be used as an outside back or centre and says he is “incredibly excited and thankful” to be able to join the Force.
“Stepping into a new code will push me as a player and that’s something that genuinely motivates me,” he says.
“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.
“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,” Lomax says.
“I can’t wait to get started in Perth and begin this next chapter of my career.”
FORMER NRL REP CAREER
Debuting for the St George Illawarra Dragons in 2018, Lomax made his State of Origin debut for NSW in 2024, going on to play for his country later that year.
“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,” RA CEO Phil Waugh says.
“Zac brings a unique set of experiences and skills to our environment and is motivated by the challenge of competing on the global stage.
“He came to Perth late last year and we spent some time together talking about the Force and how we want to play,” Force coach Simon Cron says of the former NRL player.
“He remained in contact during the process and has always been extremely enthusiastic about the opportunity of joining the players who chose Perth as their home.
“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.
“We are excited to get him started.”
Lomax had first pursued a move to the Melbourne Storm after he requested an early release from his former club, the Parramatta Eels.
The Eels granted Lomax a conditional release that his move to a rival NRL club before the 2028 season would only be granted with the club’s permission.
He tried to join a rebel R360 global rugby union competition which was subsequently delayed.
His move to the Storm fell apart with the Storm forced to pay Parramatta’s legal fees worth up to $250,000 when the case went to the Supreme Court, news.com.au reports.
OTHER NRL-RUGBY NEWS: Auckland to host Origin clash in 2027
