NSW Waratahs number eight Langi Gleeson is not only embracing the intensity of Super Rugby Pacific this season but leading the way for impact on the field.
The Wallabies backrower is still focusing on continual improvement as his side gears up for Saturday night’s Round 4 clash against the Western Force at Allianz Stadium in Moore Park, Sydney.
The game features in another home double-header for the NSW Waratahs who have won both their games from three rounds (including a bye round).
The NSW Waratahs Women also play their Super Rugby Women's Round 2 clash against the Western Force at Allianz Stadium beforehand.
Reflecting on the NSW Waratahs' 29-24 win last Friday over the Fijian Drua at Allianz Stadium, Gleeson, who scored two tries, acknowledged the physical toll but praised the team’s resilience.
“It’s always good to get a win at home, and against the Drua, it’s even more special,” Gleeson told media on Tuesday after NSW Waratahs training at their base in Daceyville.
“They’re a tough side with their offloads and physical carries, so for us to defend well for the full eighty minutes was massive.”
With close results in the opening rounds of this year’s Super Rugby Pacific, Gleeson stressed the importance of building momentum, especially with the NSW Waratahs enjoying an extended run of home games before tougher away fixtures in New Zealand and Fiji.
“It’s great to have these home games early, giving us time to gel. By the time we travel, we’ll be a more experienced unit,” Gleeson said.
Individually, Gleeson has started the season in outstanding form. He credits that to a shift in mindset rather than any physical changes.
“I feel like I have a point to prove,” Gleeson said. “Last year wasn’t the best start for me, so now my focus is on being physical every carry, every tackle, and doing it for the boys.”
Gleeson’s future, however, remains uncertain amid speculation of a move to France to join the Montpellier club.
While he confirmed informing teammates of his departure, he left the door open for other options. “Nothing is confirmed yet,” Gleeson said.
For now, Gleeson said his sole focus is on delivering for the NSW Waratahs.
With fierce competition in Super Rugby Pacific and his Wallabies ambitions still burning, he’s determined to leave his mark—starting with another big performance this weekend.
Meanwhile, NSW Waratahs winger Darby Lancaster is riding high after his side's strong start to the Super Rugby Pacific season.
"The mood in the camp is really positive," Lancaster said.
"Obviously, we're happy with two wins, but we know the Force are playing good footy, and we're making sure we prepare as best we can to give ourselves every chance."
Lancaster credits the NSW Waratahs' success so far to resilience and grit but acknowledges that there is room for improvement.
"Right now, we're winning through sheer fight and determination,” Lancaster said.
“If we can be a bit smarter with our decision-making in attack and sharpen up our structure, I think we can go a long way."
As with Gleeson, Lancaster emphasizes the importance of building momentum.
"We want to win every game we play, no matter where it is,” Lancaster said.
“But having these early matches at home gives us a great opportunity to build confidence before we take on some of the bigger challenges later in the season."
The former Australian Sevens representative also believes his experience in the shorter format has been instrumental in his transition to 15-a-side rugby.
"Playing Sevens really helped my game. It sharpens your decision-making, footwork, and ability to exploit space—things that are crucial for outside backs in fifteens,” Lancaster said.
“Guys like Lachie Anderson (Queensland Reds) and Dylan Pietsch (Western Force) have made the transition well, and I’m a big advocate for backs going through that pathway."
Looking to Saturday’s clash with the Western Force who have won two of their three games so far, Lancaster expects a tough contest.
"They’re one of the most physical teams in the competition, and we know they’ll bring a lot of intensity,” Lancaster said.
“Our job is to stick to our defensive systems, trust each other, and make sure we're on the same page."
For Lancaster, representing the Waratahs is a childhood dream come true.
"I grew up in New South Wales watching the Tahs,” he said.
“Every time I run out there, it’s a huge honour, and I’m loving every second of it."
At Allianz Stadium, 8 March 2025
NSW Waratahs Women v Western Force
Kick-off: 5:05 pm
NSW Waratahs v Western Force
Kick-off: 7.35 pm
To purchase your tickets, click HERE
The game will be televised Live, ad-free and on-demand on Stan Sport – The Home of Rugby
