Lachlan Ilias Embraces New Role with Gold Coast Titans
Lachlan Ilias has never worn the No.6 jersey at the NRL level before this season, but Gold Coast coach Josh Hannay believes he is a natural fit for the position. The 25-year-old has primarily played as a halfback throughout his career, but this season he has transitioned to five-eighth for the Titans. His move to the new role has been a positive development, and Ilias is showing signs of a career on the upswing.
Ilias had a strong start to his NRL journey, leading South Sydney to the preliminary final in 2022 and playing all 24 matches the following year. However, his progress was disrupted by injuries in 2024, and he experienced a difficult season at St George Illawarra. Despite these challenges, the Titans signed him on a two-year deal, and he has since found a new lease of life with the club.
At the start of the season, Ilias took over as halfback due to an injury to Jayden Campbell. Now that AJ Brimson has moved to the centres, Ilias has shifted to the No.6 jersey. This change has not affected his performance, as Hannay pointed out.
“I understand the interest around what number a player wears on their back, but whether you are a six or seven the role is very much the same,” Hannay said. “Lachie plays how Lachie plays. He is a busy, organising type of half and that is what he is doing despite having the six on his back. He gives us a bit of stability out there and allows a bit of freedom for guys like JC (Campbell) and Keano Kini.”
The Titans have placed significant faith in Ilias, and Hannay is pleased with the way he has adapted to his new role. From the moment he joined the team, Ilias has shown dedication and commitment. His actions and character have helped him integrate well into the group.
“From day one he has come in and worked really hard,” Hannay said. “He has been embraced by the group through his actions and character and is a cracking young lad, so it is easy to gravitate towards guys like that.”
Ilias is not looking for miracles, and Hannay doesn’t expect them either. He simply wants Ilias to do his job consistently. “I do believe he complements some of the free-spirited players in our team,” Hannay said. “Lachie just does his job. He is not setting the world on fire but I think he is just doing a nice job for us.”
One of Ilias’s strengths is his vocal presence on the field, which he developed during his time at South Sydney. “That’s just the player I am,” Ilias said. “Cody Walker had a big part in that, telling me how to talk. I took that to the Dragons and I am helping here as much as I can. I know there are guys that like to run the footy so where I can organise and play my part I will do that.”
Ilias is focused on contributing to the team’s success and is happy to be playing regular football. “Coming here I just wanted to play regular footy,” he said. “I love to play six and alongside JC, hopefully we get a few more wins.”
