Wallabies hopeful keeps options open for Scotland call-up

Eligible for Scotland through a grandparent, Lambert is entering the final year of his Waratahs contract and has yet to secure a new deal.

Lambert featured for Scotland’s Under-20 side during the 2020 Six Nations and initially joined Glasgow Warriors on an academy contract, progressing to the senior squad in 2021. He later represented Australia A in 2023.

This season, Lambert has started all seven matches for the Waratahs and has developed into one of the standout Australian loosehead props in Super Rugby.

With Brumbies veteran James Slipper stepping away from Test rugby last year ahead of the 2027 World Cup, Lambert is in a strong position to add depth for the Wallabies in that role.

“I’d probably be lying if I said it’s something [representing Scotland] that didn’t cross my mind at all because obviously opportunities arise and maybe opportunities for me weren’t really coming up here [at the Waratahs],” Lambert said to SMH.au.

“So I think it’s not something you can completely close the door on, but in terms of my mindset, the Tahs is where I want to be and that’s what my focus is going to be going forward.

"With international stuff and the Wallabies, I guess that will just take care of itself. If the opportunity was to arise there, I’d be very happy.”

Lambert also represented Australia A in 2024 and has impressed this season in the absence of Angus Bell, who is currently on a sabbatical in Belfast with Ulster.

He acknowledged that Bell’s return to Sydney will bring added competition after making the No.1 jersey his own this year.

“I know it’s a challenge with Belly coming back next year, but that’s one that I’m willing to take on and one that I think is only going to help me, to be honest,” Lambert said.

“Being able to train every day with someone that’s probably one of the best in the world in the position, I think that’s only going to benefit me. Hopefully it can benefit him as well, and the team.”