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Zac Lomax’s long-awaited debut offers a boost for the Force, but injury to Darby Lancaster tempers the momentum.

Zac Lomax is set to make his long-awaited Super Rugby Pacific debut on Saturday, with Western Force coach Simon Cron confirming the former NRL player has overcome a minor hamstring concern to face the Fijian Drua.

Lomax, 26, was a late withdrawal from last week's 42-19 win over the Queensland Reds after experiencing tightness, but has completed training this week and will be eased into the match from the bench.

Cron indicated his minutes would depend on how the contest unfolds, while noting the physical presence the outside back brings.

The coach added that Lomax had remained focused on adapting to rugby union and contributing within the team structure, praising his application since joining the squad.

While Lomax's return is a boost, the Force are set to be without in-form winger Darby Lancaster for a period after he injured his ankle while scoring in last week's win.

Lancaster has crossed for four tries in five matches this season and has been a key attacking outlet.

Cron described the setback as a significant loss, highlighting Lancaster's impact through line breaks and finishing ability, but said the club was still assessing the injury and expected him to miss the medium term.

There was some relief on the injury front, with Dylan Pietsch named to play despite an ongoing foot issue that had disrupted his early season. Cron explained the problem as minor scar tissue rather than a fresh concern.

Captain Jeremy Williams also returns after concussion, although prop Tom Robertson will miss the trip with his own head knock.

The Force head into the clash in Fiji needing momentum. Despite last week's upset win over the Reds, they remain nine points outside the top six, leaving little margin for error as the competition tightens.