Noah Lolesio Faces Wallabies Dismissal Ahead of British and Irish Lions Series with Recent International Decision

Wallabies standout Noah Lolesio may face the possibility of missing the forthcoming British and Irish Lions series after agreeing to a contract with a Japanese club.

The details of the team that Lolesio has signed with for the 2026 season remain undisclosed, but the Brumbies have confirmed that he will be leaving.

This anticipated departure raises questions about his future with the Wallabies, particularly in light of coach Joe Schmidt’s firm policy against selecting players who have committed to overseas contracts.

Earlier this year, Waratahs No. 8 Langi Gleeson had his invitation to a national training camp rescinded after signing with French club Montpellier for the same 2026 season.

This will not be Lolesio’s first international excursion, as he previously played for Toulon under a short-term three-match agreement.

The 25-year-old signed the Toulon contract after being omitted from Eddie Jones’ squad for the 2023 campaign.

During that campaign, Jones opted for Ben Donaldson, who has since been impressing on the pitch in the Super Rugby Pacific competition.

Donaldson boasts an 87 per cent kicking success rate this season, compared to Lolesio’s 62.5 per cent.

However, Donaldson lacks the level of international experience that Lolesio possesses.

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As it stands, Rugby Australia does not enforce a policy that excludes players competing overseas from selection.

Lolesio is not expected to return to action with the Brumbies until Saturday, April 12, when they take on the Queensland Reds.

The Canberra-based side has a bye this week.