Wallabies star quits Australian rugby, Schmidt faces huge call on No.10 to face Lions

Wallabies first choice flyhalf Noah Lolesio has decided to leave Australian rugby and the Brumbies to play in Japan at the end of this season.A report from News Corp said the Brumbies playmaker told teammates of his decision on Friday. No destination club was reported, although two years ago he turned down offers from Honda and Suntory to sign a two-year deal to stay in Australian rugby.

While a major blow for Joe Schmidt – who must now decide if he keeps faith in Lolesio for the British and Irish Lions tour, it could prove a boost for NSW Waratahs No.10 Tane Edmed, who shapes as a potential Brumbies replacement.(Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)It also clears the way for a potential battle between Ben Donaldson, who has been in strong form for the Western Force, and Queensland Reds No.



10 Tom Lynagh. More RugbyWallabies star quits Australian rugby, Schmidt faces huge call on No.10 to face LionsLarkham walks away from Wallabies race as two-man battle loomsIs Larkham behind Lolesio’s struggles? Brumbies coach's Irish experience might provide a clueAustralia's Super Rugby success: Is it just a flattering illusion or can the game seize the moment for lasting growth?'We need more from him': Why Tahs benched Tupou - and what they want from ‘frustrated’ Wallabies starRugby Brumbies chief executive Phil Thomson was quoted as saying: “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 for him for his contribution to the Brumbies.”RA’s head of high performance, Peter Horne, added: “Noah has informed us that he has been presented with an opportunity overseas for next season and we wish him well.”Lolesio is unlikely to be the last to cause contract headaches for Horne.

Earlier Friday it was reported that Western Force flanker Carlo Tizzano has been offered a huge contract in Japan. Wallabies’ first-choice No.7 Fraser McReight recently knocked back overseas offers to re-sign with the Wallabies and Reds.

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