Is Zac Lomax About to Shake Up the Rugby World Again? Just when you thought the drama surrounding NRL star Zac Lomax couldn’t get any more intense, new developments have emerged that could flip the script entirely. And this is the part most people miss: Lomax has been spotted at Rugby Australia’s headquarters, reigniting rumors of a potential code switch—a move that could send shockwaves through both rugby league and union circles. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a strategic career pivot or a desperate play after his failed bid to join the Melbourne Storm? Let’s break it down.
On Wednesday, News Corp published photos of Lomax leaving Rugby Australia’s Moore Park offices, just a day after his hopes of returning to the NRL were dashed. The winger had been banking on the Storm negotiating a release with the Parramatta Eels, the club holding his NRL rights. However, the Storm were slapped with a $250,000 legal fee, and Lomax’s NRL lockout was only reduced by one year, extending until the end of 2027. Parramatta’s chairman, Matthew Beach, has stated the club is open to a player swap deal—but only if it strengthens their squad. Bold question: Is Lomax willing to settle for a less-than-ideal destination, or is he holding out for a better offer?
Adding to the intrigue, Lomax’s history with code-switching attempts is no secret. He previously explored a move to the rebel R360 league, which ultimately delayed its launch until 2028. When that fell through, he met with Super Rugby Pacific teams like the Western Force and ACT Brumbies. However, without a top-up payment from Rugby Australia, his interest cooled, and he shifted focus back to the Storm. Now, with that avenue closed, his reappearance at RA suggests either an improved offer or a change of heart—possibly accepting a contract rumored to be between $300K and $400K, a significant drop from his Eels salary.
But here’s the kicker: Super Rugby clubs operate under a strict $5.5 million salary cap, with RA providing additional funding for Wallabies-caliber players. This model has already benefited stars like Angus Crichton and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, whose switches have sparked debates about fairness in cross-code recruitment. RA boss Phil Waugh has kept the door open for Lomax, calling him a ‘world-class athlete,’ but emphasized their focus on repatriating players with rugby experience—a criterion Lomax doesn’t meet. Controversial take: Is RA bending its own rules to land high-profile players, or is this just smart business?
The Western Force are reportedly leading the race to sign Lomax, while NSW Waratahs coach Dan McKellar downplayed any interest, joking that adding Lomax to their already expensive backline might force him to play in the front row. Meanwhile, Lomax’s management remains tight-lipped, leaving fans and pundits alike speculating about his next move.
Thought-provoking question for you: Is Zac Lomax’s potential switch to rugby union a game-changer, or is he risking his career by jumping codes again? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
