Rugby Australia stunned by former NRL star Zac Lomax’s approach

Zac Lomax’s tour of Western Force’s facilities has taken a dramatic turn following revelations the former NRL star contacted Rugby Australia officials three weeks ago.

Zac Lomax’s management team has contacted Rugby Australia with well-placed sources revealing the former Parramatta star would be embraced by the Wallabies for the Rugby World Cup in 2027.

Lomax’s representative - believed to be Clinton Schifcofske - reached out to RA three weeks ago after fears increased that the proposed R360 would fall over.

The unexpected approach shocked Rugby Australia.

This masthead can reveal powerful figures inside rugby union have spoken about the prospects of Lomax’s rah-rah education progressing quick enough for him to be available for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.

RA officials were stunned about the Lomax approach with most believing he would sign for an overseas rugby union franchise.

Lomax’s management team asked RA whether they would be interested in the former NRL star.

Could Zac Lomax turn out for the Wallabies at the Rugby World Cup?

RA wasn’t talking publicly but privately there was little doubt Lomax would be heavily considered for Wallabies selection provided his form was strong and he was committed to rugby union.

Lomax, 26, could only earn up to $200,000 playing Super Rugby – a whopping $500,000 a season pay cut from his Eels deal.

That would mean Lomax accepting a significant financial haircut for next season but then earning a Rugby Australia contract for 2027 through elite performances.

That ’27 RA deal could be compared financially to an NRL contract.

An incumbent NSW State of Origin winger, Lomax would be considered a goal kicking winger in rugby union who can be dynamic under the high ball.

He could also play outside centre.

A former NSW and Kangaroos winger, Lomax could secure two seasons of Super Rugby before the Wallabies announce a World Cup squad.

It’s possible that the Wallabies two World Cup wingers could be Lomax and the Sydney Roosters’ Mark Nawaqanitawase.

Lomax is in Perth touring the Western Force’s training facilities while reports have also surfaced about possible interest from the ACT Brumbies.

The NSW Waratahs and Queensland Reds haven’t yet indicated any public attraction to Lomax.

Red coach Les Kiss will take over as Wallabies head coach in July next season.

A condition of Lomax’s release from Parramatta states he cannot play for another NRL side until 2029, when his contract expires, but he can play rugby union.

Lomax’s decision to fly to Western Australia could indicate that mooted interest from French and Japanese rugby union could be waning, or non-existent.

Zac Lomax would prove a backline threat in the air. Picture: Michael Klein

“The Wallabies would look at him, for sure. Not too many blokes in the current squad have put up their hands (for selection). There are spots available,” former Wallabies and Kangaroos winger Lote Tuqiri told Code Sports on Monday.

“Lomax would be successful in rugby union. He is great under the high ball, he’s one of the best exponents in rugby league, he is a goal kicker, a big body, he’s aggressive and has a kicking game.”

The Wallabies have endured a tough year after losing all four Tests on their recent European tour.

The World Cup kicks off in Perth in early October, 2027.

Originally published as Rugby Australia stunned by former NRL star Zac Lomax’s approach