Bolt from the Blue: NSW coach Michael Maguire makes shock call to Zac Lomax

In a major development that could ultimately lead to Zac Lomax making his State of Origin debut, Blues coach Michael Maguire has reached out to the high-profile Dragon.

Zac Lomax has received the ultimate recognition with a shock phone call from NSW State of Origin coach Michael Maguire.

In a major development that could ultimately lead to Lomax making his State of Origin debut, this masthead can reveal Maguire reached out to the high-profile Dragon following his blistering round one performance on the wing.

News of Maguire’s call to Lomax to suggest he’s watching his game closely emerged during a Dragons members forum on Monday night where paid-up fans of the club were provided feedback on both the club’s current trajectory and the current status of key players.

Lomax has been at the centre of widespread debate after being shifted by Dragons head coach Shane Flanagan from his preferred position of centre to wing to begin the season.

Zac Lomax received a surprise call from NSW coach Michael Maguire. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

Flanagan stood by his decision by stating he was simply picking the team he believes had the best chance to win matches.

There had been reports that Lomax was privately disgruntled by the move – suggestions of which, the 24-year-old is yet to address publicly.

Jack Bird, who has been chosen at centre in place of Lomax, said last week that he hoped that he and his teammate could forge a long-term combination on the right side of the Dragons edge.

Lomax was handed the Dragons coaches award after his performance in round one against the Titans that saw him run for 246-metres, produce 10 tackle busts and a try.

And although the Dragons were stunned by a heavy 38-0 nil loss to the The Dolphins in round 2, Lomax contributed with the most runs (27) and run-metres (161) of any other St George Illawarra player.

Wing is a position of serious concern for the Blues.

Maguire has plenty of work ahead of him.

Since the 2020 Origin series, only Brian To’o, Josh Addo-Carr and Daniel Tupou have been chosen in the position for the Blues.

Maguire, who takes over the Blues for the first time in 2024, has made it clear he’s preparing to pick players on form and who he believes will restore pride in the NSW jersey.

At his best, Lomax has all the attributes required on the Origin stage, with his power coming out of the back-field, kick-chase and aerial expertise, all major features of his game.

Ironically, it was former NSW State of Origin coach Brad Fittler who nicknamed Lomax ‘The Gifted One’ after coaching the Temora product in the NSW under-16 and 18s.

Lomax has again been selected on the wing for the Dragons in their important home clash with the Cowboys at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on Saturday night.