Dual-code legend Lote Tuqiri has called on Zac Lomax to seize the opportunity to join the Wallabies as the Parramatta centre navigates his next career move following the collapse of the rebel R360 competition. The 25-year-old Lomax, who had secured an early release from the Eels to join the breakaway league, now finds himself without a team after the project’s delay until at least 2028.
Under the terms of his exit from Parramatta, Lomax is barred from signing with another NRL club until 2028, leaving a two-season gap he must fill overseas or in another sport. His agent, Clinton Schifcofske, confirmed that Lomax is exploring his options widely. “Zac has options. Zac has always been interested in other things so he can pick and choose now,” Schifcofske stated. “There’s no shortage of interest. We’ll make a final decision shortly.”
Lomax’s Potential in Rugby Union
While combat sports have emerged as a possible avenue, Tuqiri believes Lomax should aim higher, specifically targeting the 2027 home Rugby World Cup. Tuqiri emphasized that the Wallabies would likely consider Lomax. “The Wallabies would look at him, for sure. Not too many blokes in the current squad have put up their hands. There are spots available,” Tuqiri told Code Sports.
Tuqiri, who transitioned successfully from rugby league to rugby union, playing 67 Tests for Australia and starring at the 2003 World Cup, sees Lomax as having the skills, temperament, and athletic profile to make a similar switch. “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,” Tuqiri noted.
International Interest and Strategic Moves
Reports indicate that Lomax has already attracted interest from clubs in Japan and France. It’s unlikely he would have accepted an NRL release without a near-finalized contract for 2026. Tuqiri suggests a strategic path for Lomax: “I’d tell him to go chase the money overseas, come back for a Super Rugby season and then have a crack at the World Cup,” he advised. “Everyone is chasing deals in France or Japan but Lomax is a world-class athlete so he will find somewhere.”
Implications for Australian Rugby
A potential move to the Wallabies would come at a pivotal time for Australian rugby. Despite some promising signs during the British & Irish Lions tour, the Wallabies’ 2025 season ended disappointingly with four losses in Europe, marking the first winless northern tour by an Australian side in 67 years. With a home World Cup just two years away, Rugby Australia is in dire need of players who can elevate the Test side to global prominence.
“He’s a guy who could bring something different – aerial skills, physicality, game-breaking ability,” Tuqiri said. “There are opportunities there if he wants to take them.”
As Lomax weighs his options, the broader rugby community watches closely. His decision could not only shape his career but also influence the future landscape of Australian rugby. The coming months will be crucial as Lomax and his team finalize his next steps in this dynamic sporting environment.
