Zac Lomax’s Contract Saga Takes Dramatic Turn

Morgan Winslow

ago 2 hours

Parramatta Eels have initiated legal action against their former player, Zac Lomax, regarding a contentious contract dispute. Lomax, an Australian Test winger, previously walked away from the last three years of his contract with the Eels, aiming instead for a lucrative deal with the controversial rugby competition, R360.

Zac Lomax’s Contract Saga Takes Dramatic Turn

As the launch of R360 has been pushed to 2028, Lomax is now seeking a return to the National Rugby League (NRL). However, Parramatta’s head coach, Jason Ryles, has expressed that he does not want Lomax back with the team. The club has also been firm in not allowing Lomax to negotiate with other NRL teams for the next three years, a stipulation outlined in his release agreement.

Ongoing Negotiations and Legal Proceedings

Despite ongoing discussions aimed at resolving the situation, talks recently broke down. The NRL attempted to mediate a deal between Parramatta and Melbourne Storm, a team eager to secure a marquee player after losing several stars. Unfortunately, negotiations turned adversarial, prompting the Eels to take legal action against Lomax.

Date of legal matter: Scheduled for hearing on Friday afternoon in the NSW Supreme Court.
Legal representation: Zac Lomax has engaged Ramy Qutami, while the Eels are represented by Arthur Moses.

Statement from Parramatta Eels Chairman

Matthew Beach, Chairman of the Eels, expressed disappointment over the escalation to legal actions. He emphasized the club’s responsibility to uphold its contractual rights, stating:

“Contracts allow Clubs and players to operate with certainty and within a framework of rules.”

Beach noted that Lomax had sought his release in November 2025, with the understanding that he would not return to the NRL during the term of his original contract without written consent from the club.

Melbourne Storm’s Compensation Offer

In discussions with the Melbourne Storm, it was reported that the Storm offered around $200,000 in compensation for Lomax. However, the Eels countered this offer, insisting they would only release him if they received a player in exchange. The club expressed interest in obtaining either Jack Howarth, Xavier Coates, or Stefano Utoikamanu, but the Storm was unwilling to part with these players.

Future Prospects

The NRL has indicated that it may intervene if Parramatta does not accept reasonable offers for Lomax. While compensation offers like that from the Bulldogs—$165,000 for a mid-season transfer—are on the table, the financial aspects do not resolve Parramatta’s market or salary-cap challenges.

As negotiations continue, the future of Zac Lomax and his potential return to the NRL remains uncertain, especially given the current legal proceedings initiated by the Eels.