The Canterbury Bulldogs have launched a stunning and controversial move in an attempt to secure Zac Lomax, but Parramatta Eels have firmly shut the door—for now. The bold approach comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding Lomax’s future following the delay of the R360 rebel rugby union competition, a development that has thrown the star’s career plans into chaos.
According to Code Sports, Parramatta rejected the Bulldogs’ request to open talks with Lomax for a potential 2026 return to the NRL. The Eels’ stance is rooted in the strict conditions attached to Lomax’s early release from the final three years of his contract. As part of that agreement, Lomax was allowed to leave on the understanding that he would not sign for another NRL club for the duration of the original deal.
Despite this, the Bulldogs sought permission to speak with the former Blues and Kangaroos representative, sensing an opportunity created by the collapse of Lomax’s planned move to R360. Parramatta immediately rejected the request, though reports suggest discussions between the two clubs are expected to continue, with Canterbury still keen on securing his services.
Crucially, the Eels retain Lomax’s NRL rights for the next three seasons should he decide to return to the competition, meaning any deal would require Parramatta’s approval.
Lomax, now without a contract for 2026, had committed to the R360 competition before its launch was delayed until 2028. His fallback options—moves to Super Rugby sides Western Force or ACT Brumbies—have also stalled after Rugby Australia declined to guarantee a financial top-up on his reported $400,000 state contract.
The situation has come at a significant financial cost. Lomax walked away from a $700,000-per-season Eels deal, losing an estimated $2.1 million, and had previously turned down an $850,000 offer from the Dragons.
Fans have reacted strongly online. Bulldogs supporters hailed the club’s ambition, with one writing on X, “This is the kind of ruthless recruitment we’ve been missing. Lomax would change everything.” Meanwhile, Eels fans were defiant, insisting the club must protect its position. “We didn’t let him go just to strengthen a rival,” one supporter posted. “The rules are the rules.”
At just 26, Lomax boasts an impressive record—58 tries, 368 goals in 133 NRL games, plus six State of Origin appearances and three Tests for Australia. Whether this standoff ends in compromise or conflict remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Lomax saga is far from over.
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