‘One-in-a-lifetime opportunity’: Lomax reveals goal before joining PNG Chiefs

Zac Lomax, the cross-code rugby star, has signed a three-year contract with the PNG Chiefs, effective from 2028, marking the start of what he calls a “one-in-a-lifetime” opportunity. The 27-year-old winger landed in Sydney on Monday evening after completing the deal with the NRL’s 19th franchise, which is set to begin its inaugural season in Papua New Guinea. Despite the excitement surrounding his move, Lomax has made it clear that his immediate priority is recovering from a prolonged injury and reclaiming his place in the Australian national rugby union team, the Wallabies. Lomax has been sidelined since May due to osteitis pubis, a common ailment among professional athletes. He has been undergoing rehabilitation at Rugby Australia headquarters, working closely with medical staff to regain fitness. His goal is to return to peak form ahead of the Wallabies’ spring tour of Europe later this year. Lomax expressed his determination to represent both codes, rugby union and rugby league, and to make history as a dual international. “The thought of heading to the Chiefs at the end of next year while having represented my country in both codes is the ultimate motivation for me,” Lomax said. He emphasized that while the opportunity to play for the PNG Chiefs is significant, his primary focus remains on the Wallabies. “My heart and soul is absolutely dedicated to Australia in rugby union right now. I want nothing more than to pull on that gold jersey,” he added. Lomax acknowledged the challenges posed by his injury, calling it a “week-to-week” issue that requires consistent effort to overcome. He noted that each week brings progress, and he is optimistic about his recovery timeline. “I’m up at RA most days through the week getting it sorted. Hopefully, I’m back sooner than later,” he said. The Wallabies currently boast a deep pool of talent in the wing position, including established stars such as Mark Nawaqanitawase, Max Jorgensen, Dylan Pietsch, and Harry Potter. Lomax was not selected for the mid-year Tests against Ireland, France, and Italy due to his injury status. However, his commitment to the game and his desire to contribute to the national team remain unwavering. PNG Chiefs general manager of football Michael Chammas has expressed confidence in Lomax’s ability to fulfill his ambitions. Chammas referred to Lomax as “player 005” and highlighted the significance of the upcoming World Cup on home soil. “There’s a World Cup on home soil, and chatting with him the last few days, I know how much it means to him,” Chammas said. He assured Rugby Australia that Lomax is fully committed to supporting the national team before transitioning to the PNG Chiefs. Chammas also shared updates on the club’s recruitment efforts. While Lomax and several other key signings, including Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, and Connor Watson, are already on board, the club plans to focus on assembling its forward pack starting in November. Chammas confirmed that Joey Manu, another potential addition, has returned to Paris to join his French rugby team, though the club remains hopeful he could join the Chiefs’ inaugural squad. With the PNG Chiefs poised to launch their new era in rugby, Lomax’s journey continues to intertwine both codes, driven by personal ambition and a desire to make a lasting impact on the sport and his homeland. As he works toward full fitness, the eyes of fans and teammates alike will be watching closely to see if he can achieve his dream of becoming a dual international.