James O’Connor has committed to a one-year contract with Western Force for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season as he aims to extend his rugby career while positioning himself for a role with the Wallabies at next year’s home Rugby World Cup. At 36, O’Connor acknowledges some physical decline but remains confident in his ability to impact games, particularly as a strategic substitute.
“I’ve lost a bit of speed over the years, but my strength and experience remain intact,” O’Connor said. He emphasized his adaptability, having transitioned from wing to centre earlier in his career to focus more on ball handling and physicality. O’Connor plans to combine playing duties with a coaching role during the upcoming Super Rugby AUS season, which kicks off on September 13, before focusing exclusively on playing next year.
Meanwhile, the Waratahs face challenges in fielding key playmaker Max Burey, who is contracted to Western Force until November 1 despite having signed with New South Wales for 2027. Western Force has held firm on their contract terms, delaying Burey’s release and impacting the Waratahs’ preparations for the domestic campaign. Waratahs coach Lachlan McCaffrey expressed frustration over the situation and called for greater cooperation among Super Rugby franchises to ensure players have consistent playing opportunities.
Waratahs officials reportedly have sought an early release for Burey by negotiating a fee with the Force, though the latter retains the right to refuse. In contrast, Queensland has released playmaker Harry McLaughlin-Phillips early to play for Western Force, which also includes veteran Kurtley Beale in its squad but has chosen not to select Burey for the upcoming season.
The absence of Bernard Foley from Super Rugby AUS further complicates the Waratahs’ No. 10 options. McCaffrey identified several candidates to fill the pivotal playmaker role, including Joey Fowler, who featured at five-eighth last year, and Joe Dillon from the Manly Marlins. Other potential contenders include outside backs James Hendren and Sid Harvey, both known for their ball-playing skills. Assistant coach Jack Debreczeni, a retired playmaker, is also expected to contribute to shaping the team’s strategy.
O’Connor’s move to the Force follows a period of diverse engagements, including a stint with the Crusaders that culminated in a 2025 Super Rugby title, international matches with the Wallabies, and playing for Leicester. He described deliberately taking time away from the high demands of professional play to focus on family life, as he and his wife prepare for their first child. Despite his measured approach, O’Connor remains driven to perform at the highest level whenever he takes the field.
Next year, O’Connor aims to compete for the No. 10 jersey alongside younger players such as McLaughlin-Phillips and Ben Donaldson, marking what he intends to be his final season as a player before pursuing further coaching opportunities.