Eels and Storm hold last-minute negotiations to avoid Lomax trial

Sydney Morning Herald

by Dan Walsh

March 1, 2026

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Eels and Storm hold last-minute negotiations to avoid Lomax trial

Eels and Storm have engaged in last-minute negotiations to resolve Zac Lomax’s future and avoid his landmark court trial. The NSW Supreme Court hearing, initially scheduled for Monday, was delayed as both clubs sought a private settlement behind closed doors. Lomax, who is seeking a transfer from Parramatta to Melbourne, remains at the center of a contractual dispute. Parramatta claims he agreed not to join a rival NRL club until 2028 without their written consent. Despite offers from Melbourne ranging from $100,000 to $300,000, including a salary cap component for Ryan Matterson, the Eels have rejected these deals, complicating negotiations further. The legal battle has drawn in the NRL, with Parramatta issuing a subpoena to obtain documents related to the league’s involvement. A message from Melbourne Storm CEO Justin Rodski to NRL CEO Andrew Abdo, urging pressure on Parramatta, was revealed during court proceedings. This exchange suggests an attempt by the Storm and NRL to influence the Eels to accept Lomax’s transfer. The case highlights the high-stakes nature of player movements in professional sports, where contractual disputes can lead to significant financial implications and legal complexities. The delay in Lomax’s trial underscores the efforts of both clubs to resolve the matter privately, avoiding a potential precedent-setting court ruling. For readers interested in the broader implications, this case sheds light on the power dynamics within elite sports leagues and the lengths teams will go to secure star players. The ongoing negotiations also raise questions about transparency in player transfers and the NRL’s role in mediating such disputes. This story is not just about rugby league—it’s a revealing look into the business of professional sports and the challenges clubs face when competing for talent.

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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 3/1/2026