Noah Lolesio’s impending move to Japan has created a new obstacle for Wallabies’ head coach Joe Schmidt as he prepares the team for their upcoming clash with the British and Irish Lions next July. Lolesio, an experienced player with 32 tests under his belt, was considered the frontrunner for the starting flyhalf position in this pivotal season for Australian rugby.
The announcement of Lolesio’s transition from the Canberra-based Brumbies to a Japanese club surprised rugby fans. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge Schmidt faces with players pursuing overseas contracts instead of prioritizing national duties. Earlier this year, Schmidt denied Langi Gleeson access to a Wallabies training camp after learning of his decision to join French club Montpellier.
The 25-year-old Lolesio had been reinstated as a starting flyhalf by Schmidt after being sidelined by former coach Eddie Jones. Previously, he had a brief stint with the French club Toulon before returning to Australia and reclaiming his No. 10 jersey. Jones, on the other hand, had shown preference towards Ben Donaldson from Western Force and Waratahs playmaker Carter Gordon. However, Gordon had left rugby union to try his luck in Australia’s National Rugby League. Tane Edmed has also been competing with Lawson Creighton for the coveted No. 10 jersey this season.
Lolesio’s contributions this Super Rugby season were curtailed by a concussion in Round 1, which saw him sidelined for three weeks. He was regaining his form until the ACT Brumbies’ break in Round 8. His departure is a significant loss for the Brumbies, who have consistently made it to the Super Rugby playoffs with his aid.
Brumbies CEO Phil Thomson expressed his gratitude and best wishes for Lolesio, stating: “We’ve been advised by Noah that he’s taking up an offer overseas in 2026. We wish him all the best in the next stage of his rugby career and thank him for his contribution to the Brumbies.” Lolesio has agreed to a one-year deal in Japan with a potential for an additional year. The specific club remains unnamed.
Should Schmidt opt not to select Lolesio for the Wallabies, Queensland Reds’ Tom Lynagh and Ben Donaldson reenter the selection fray. Lynagh, who scored a try during the Reds’ 27-15 defeat to the Chiefs, and Donaldson, who boasts 72 points this season, are both viable candidates. Lynagh has maintained a goalkicking success rate of about 87% this season, compared to Donaldson’s 84%, with each player contributing a distinct style to the game.
In other matters troubling Schmidt this Super Rugby week, Waratahs fullback Max Jorgensen sustained an ankle injury likely to keep him out for up to eight weeks, affecting the remainder of the season. Waratahs scrumhalf Jake Gordan, hooker Dave Porecki, and former Wallabies captain Liam Wright also face injury concerns.
On a brighter note, Australian Super Rugby teams have delivered solid performances this season. The Reds, Force, Brumbies, and Waratahs are all situated within the top six playoff spots after eight rounds. Meanwhile, Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham has vouched for scrumhalf Ryan Lonergan’s potential as a national team contender, commending his efforts and improved skills both in training and play.
Larkham expressed, “Ryan this year has really stepped up and focused hard on working on his skills in training and in the offseason. I think he’s played sensationally this year.”