Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
The Western Force have suffered a significant roster setback ahead of next season after confirming the departures of Darby Lancaster, George Bridge and Max Burey. The exits matter because the trio played important roles during one of the Force’s strongest Super Rugby Pacific campaigns in recent years and leave major holes across the backline heading into 2027 preparations.
The departures add to growing turnover at the club following earlier confirmation that lock Darcy Swain will also move overseas.
Despite narrowly missing finals this year, the Force now faces another difficult rebuilding period.
Lancaster departure a major loss
Darby Lancaster emerged as one of the Force’s breakout performers during his first season at the club.
The winger scored four tries across five appearances before suffering a season ending ankle injury against the Reds in April.
Western Force officials hoped to retain the 23 year old.
Instead, Lancaster informed the club he would not return.
Reports suggest he is set to join the Blues.
The move continues an unusual early career path.
Lancaster will now represent a fourth Super Rugby Pacific club across four seasons after previously spending time with the Rebels, Waratahs and Force.
His departure removes one of the team’s most explosive attacking threats.
Bridge heading overseas despite contract
Former All Blacks utility back George Bridge will also leave despite still having time remaining on his Force contract.
Bridge became one of the most reliable performers in the squad during the 2026 season.
He missed only one match and scored two tries while spending much of the year playing outside centre.
The 31 year old is reportedly moving to Japan after receiving a stronger financial offer.
His departure removes valuable experience from the backline.
Bridge’s versatility allowed the Force to shift combinations throughout the season while maintaining consistency.
Burey set for Waratahs move
Max Burey is also departing after establishing himself as an important squad player since joining the Force in 2023.
The versatile back accumulated 33 appearances and regularly filled multiple roles across the backline.
Reports suggest Burey will join the Waratahs.
His exit creates further depth concerns for a squad already losing experienced players.
More departures continue squad changes
The Force also announced several forward departures.
Feao Fotuaika, Harry Johnson Holmes and Titi Nofoagatotoa will all leave the club.
These changes come after Darcy Swain confirmed earlier this year that he will join French club Clermont following the conclusion of the Force’s 2026 campaign.
Taken together, the departures represent significant roster turnover for a team that narrowly missed a historic finals appearance.
Force preparing replacements
There is some positive news for supporters.
Kurtley Beale is expected to remain for another season.
The club is also preparing to welcome Australian outside back James Ramm on a two year contract following his successful stint with English club Northampton Saints.
Ramm’s arrival helps soften the impact of Lancaster’s departure.
The Force also retains Dylan Pietsch and former NRL player Zac Lomax, providing multiple wing options heading into next season.
Strong finish makes changes harder to accept
The departures may feel particularly frustrating given how close the Force came to making history.
The club finished the season strongly by winning five of its final six matches.
That late surge delivered a 7 and 7 record.
Ultimately, however, the Force narrowly missed securing the franchise’s first finals appearance.
Now attention shifts toward rebuilding momentum despite significant roster changes.
After showing genuine signs of progress this season, the Force now faces the challenge of replacing several important contributors while attempting to take the next step.