The RLPA has issued a stern warning over the handling of Zac Lomax’s contract situation, saying it should not become a “horse-trading situation” as Parramatta demand compensation to allow him to join another NRL club.
Lomax, a NSW Origin and Kangaroos representative, was granted an early release from the final three years of his Eels contract to explore a move to the proposed R360 rugby union competition.
With R360 now deferring its launch to 2028, Lomax’s plans to leave have stalled, forcing him to consider his options back in the NRL.
Melbourne Storm have reportedly expressed interest in signing Lomax, but the Eels have indicated they will only approve a move if a player of similar value is exchanged. Parramatta have named Xavier Coates, Stefano Utoikamanu, or Jack Howarth as potential trade options.
MORE: Cam Murray's revelations about David Fifita's first pre-season as a Rabbitoh
RLPA chief executive Clint Newton has slammed the situation, stating the players’ union is opposed to any pressure on players to move against their will, as per reports at The Sydney Morning Herald.
“That’s not something that we would encourage or support. Players who have existing contracts have every right to see out their futures at the club they signed with,” Newton stated vehemently.
Newton also added that the RLPA was hopeful an agreement could be reached amicably and that Lomax, a “tremendous athlete,” would remain in rugby league — which he hopes will be the case.
Eels CEO Jim Sarantinos defended the club’s stance, saying Lomax had “willingly signed” the terms of his release and that the Eels should not be disadvantaged because R360 changed its plans.
Player agent Steve Gillis said he was confident “common sense would prevail” and expects Lomax will honour his next contract wherever he ends up.
The situation leaves Lomax in limbo just weeks out from NRL trial matches, with the RLPA warning that the handling of the case will set a precedent for player rights and contract negotiations across the league, as Newton urges the NRL to step in.
Contract situations have begun to boil over in recent years, with clubs, players, and fans at loggerheads over the handling of several high-profile sagas that have engulfed the NRL in recent seasons.
Newton has made it clear that the RLPA will not stand for the type of deals Parramatta are courting to allow Lomax back into the NRL, and if the saga continues on its current path, we may see it escalate into a confrontation between the RLPA and NRL ranks very shortly.