Waratahs sign potential ‘Jordie Barrett-esque’ back from Force

The NSW Waratahs have continued their signing spree ahead of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, with outside back George Poolman joining the club from the Western Force until the end of 2027.

Poolman debuted for the Force on February 25, 2023, against the Melbourne Rebels at Perth’s HBF Park. The now 23-year-old would go on to make more than 30 Super Rugby Pacific appearances for the club, scoring four tries.

The Fortescue Academy product with the Force recently impressed during the team’s run to the Super Rugby AUS Grand Final, named in the Team of the Tournament after crossing for two tries. New South Wales won the tournament’s decider, which was held in Western Australia.

Christy Doran from The Roar broke the news on Wednesday morning that Poolman was heading home to Sydney, reporting Tahs coach Dan McKellar sees the recruit as a potential “Jordie Barrett-esque” option at inside centre down the line.

“We’re thrilled to have secured George’s services for next two seasons,” McKellar said in a statement.

“He performed well for the Force throughout the Super Rugby AUS competition and his spot in the Team of the Tournament was well deserved.

“George is a quality young man with his best rugby still ahead of him and we look forward to seeing what he can deliver in Waratahs colours.”

Under Force coach Simon Cron, Poolman started two of nine appearances in 2025, featuring in the run-on side against the Crusaders and Fijian Drua. Poolman scored one try last season against the Highlanders, during a 73-minute shift off the bench.

Poolman played almost 300 minutes across the season, also playing matches against the ACT Brumbies, Queensland Reds, Hurricanes, Chiefs, Blues and again against the Drua. The flyer was on the field for 27 minutes in the dramatic Super Point draw with the Canes.

Wallabies Folau Fainga’a, Harry Potter, Pete Samu, Angus Blyth and Matt Philip have also signed with the Tahs ahead of the 2026 season. Crusaders hooker Ioane Moananu is also on the move, heading across the Tasman to wear sky blue.

While the Tahs have signed a wealth of talent in the off-season, Wallabies wing Darby Lancaster has left the club for the Force. Lancaster joins the likes of Dylan Pietsch and Mac Grealy as options in the back three, signing for the 2026 campaign.

“I’m very excited to sign on with the Force,” Lancaster explained.

“It’s an exciting group who play fast, attacking rugby and as an outside back, that’s what I love to see.

“The rugby they play suits me. I’m really looking forward to playing with attacking-minded players like Ben Donaldson. Playing at the fast deck of HBF Park, there’s bound to be some good running rugby, which will suit me.

“I know a fair few of the players, so I’m excited to get among the group. I spent a week with Crono for the AUNZ game and got to know him a bit and Chucky (Stannard) used to coach me in my Australia 7s days, so I’m really excited to work with them.

“I’ve been over to Perth a few times and always loved my time over there. The lifestyle and the beaches are going to be really nice as well.”