Zac Lomax is set to make his first Super Rugby start with the Western Force, facing the formidable defending champions, the Crusaders, in Perth on Saturday night. Lomax, who previously starred in the NRL, showcased his potential during his debut last week against Fijian Drua, where he came off the bench impressively.
In the lead-up to this match, several other key players are also making notable returns. In the Blues’ upcoming clash with the Highlanders at Auckland’s Eden Park, captain Patrick Tuipulotu makes his season debut following shoulder surgery. This return is a significant boost for the team, alongside fellow players Dalton Papali’i and Hoskins Sotutu, who rejoin after recovering from injuries.
Meanwhile, the New South Wales Waratahs will host Moana Pasifika at Allianz Stadium, with the occasion marked by the presence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The Waratahs, currently eighth on the ladder, are desperate for a victory to secure their finals hopes. They welcome back Angus Scott-Young into the starting lineup for his first game.
In Hamilton, captain Luke Jacobson will mark his 100th appearance for the Chiefs in their match against the Hurricanes, reflecting on his solid journey since debuting in 2018. The Hurricanes have only made minor adjustments to their lineup, focusing on maintaining cohesion after recent successes.
The ACT Brumbies are set to face Fijian Drua, with Tom Wright returning to the field after a lengthy injury layoff. Coach Dan McKellar has expressed his confidence in including Wright, who will take over the fullback position, while other players like Charlie Cale miss the match due to health assessments.
For the Western Force, coach Simon Cron aims to involve Lomax early in the game against the Crusaders, recognising that previous opportunities to utilise his talents were limited. Lomax will align with George Bridge, who is shifting to outside centre for this matchup.
The line-ups for the Western Force and Crusaders are as follows:
Western Force: Tom Robertson, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Misinale Epenisa, Jeremy Williams (c), Darcy Swain, Nick Champion de Crespigny, Carlo Tizzano, Vaiolini Ekuasi, Henry Robertson, Ben Donaldson, Dylan Pietsch, Bayley Kuenzle, George Bridge, Zac Lomax, Mac Grealy.
Crusaders: Finlay Brewis, George Bell, Seb Calder, Tahlor Cahill, Jamie Hannah, Dom Gardiner, Johnny Lee, Christian Lio-Willie (c), Louis Chapman, Taha Kemara, Macca Springer, Dallas McLeod, Leciester Fainga’anuku, Chay Fihaki, Johnny McNicholl.
With a busy weekend of fixtures, all eyes will be on these games as teams jostle for position in the competition.