Western Force vs Drua: Williams Returns and Lomax Set for Debut

Western Force captain Jeremy Williams is set to return to the starting lineup for the Round 9 clash against the Fijian Drua in Lautoka on Saturday, April 12, 2026. The match also marks the anticipated Super Rugby Pacific debut of former NRL star Zac Lomax.

Williams returns to the second row after successfully clearing return-to-play head injury protocols. The captain missed the Western Force’s previous fixture, a 42-19 victory over the Queensland Reds.

Zac Lomax set for delayed debut

The upcoming match against the Fijian Drua serves as the new introduction for Zac Lomax, whose first Super Rugby appearance was delayed due to injury. Lomax had previously been named on the bench for the match against the Queensland Reds in Brisbane on April 4, 2026, but was unable to take the field.

Western Force coach Simon Cron has indicated that Lomax is likely to be used as a winger when he enters the game. Cron has promised the rugby league convert a memorable debut following the initial setback.

Lomax, 26, is making a significant transition to rugby union, having not played the sport since he was 15 years old. He previously played in the NRL for Parramatta and St George Illawarra.

Path to the Wallabies

Lomax has signed a two-year contract with the Western Force and Rugby Australia. His long-term objective is to secure a berth with the Wallabies for the 2027 home World Cup.

His move to the Force follows a period of professional uncertainty in rugby league. Lomax’s attempt to join the Melbourne Storm this season ended in an out-of-court settlement before a potential NSW Supreme Court hearing, occurring after the breakaway R360 league was postponed until 2028.

Coach Simon Cron praised Lomax’s physical attributes and his ability to absorb information during his first two weeks of training, describing him as a natural athlete who is big, strong, fast, powerful.

Former Wallabies player Kurtley Beale has been instrumental in helping Lomax accelerate his understanding of the game. Lomax has specifically noted the challenge of adjusting his defensive contact around the ruck.

I’m trying to learn the game from the ground up, but it’s exciting, and I’m loving it. Around the ruck is a massive one. I would say for me it’s lowering your contact defensively.

Zac Lomax

Team Form and Context

The Western Force enter the Round 9 fixture coming off a strong 42-19 win against the Queensland Reds. However, the team’s recent form has been mixed, including a 24-14 loss to the Chiefs.

In addition to the return of Williams and the debut of Lomax, Sef Fa’agase is also expected to feature in the side as the Force travel to Lautoka to face the Drua.