Cross-code star Zac Lomax earns first Australia A start against USA in heavily rotated XV

Zac Lomax will make his Australia A debut at outside centre when Stephen Larkham’s side face the USA in their second tour match, with the cross-code recruit handed his first opportunity in the gold jersey as part of a heavily rotated starting XV.

Larkham has made sweeping changes following Australia A’s 61-12 opening victory in Nashville, with Lomax — who crossed from rugby league — named alongside Kadin Pritchard in the midfield. The halves pairing has also been refreshed, with Kalani Thomas and Harry McLaughlin-Phillips coming in to start at nine and ten respectively.

Out wide, Lachie Anderson, Corey Toole and Mac Grealy form the starting back three, while the front row is an all-Queensland Reds affair: Tom Lambert, captain Matt Faessler and Zane Nonggorr. Nick Frost and Toby Macpherson provide the second-row partnership, with Willem Harris, Luke Reimer and Joe Brial completing the loose forward trio.

“This tour has required a whole squad effort and it’s pleasing for everyone to earn their opportunity to perform in the gold jersey,” Larkham said. “The Eagles are a proud team — we are expecting a strong response this week, which means we must be at our best to ensure we reach our own expectations and finish the tour on a positive note.”

The bench features Lachlan Lonergan, Lington Ieli, Edwin Langi, Eamon Doyle, Rory Scott, Nathan Hastie, Tane Edmed and Tim Ryan, maintaining the broad squad rotation Larkham has employed throughout the trip.

Lomax’s selection is the headline call. The 25-year-old built his reputation as a prolific points-scorer in the NRL before committing to the fifteen-man code, and his inclusion at Test level — even in an A fixture — signals the coaching staff’s confidence in his transition. A strong performance against the USA would strengthen his case for higher honours ahead of the Rugby World Cup on home soil.