The Canberra Raiders have vigorously denied claims linking them to former Eels winger Zac Lomax, labeling the allegations as “absolute bullshit.” This firm rebuttal comes amid a complex legal standoff involving Lomax, the Parramatta Eels, and the Melbourne Storm.
Lomax, who recently made headlines after being released from his four-year contract with the Eels, is at the center of controversy following a collapsed deal with the R360. The legal battle has now drawn the Raiders into the fray, despite their insistence on having no interest in the player.
Legal Proceedings and Club Reactions
During a Supreme Court hearing on Friday, Arthur Moses, the barrister representing the Parramatta Eels, claimed that Lomax’s lawyer had contacted three clubs about a potential move. These clubs were identified as the Canberra Raiders, Melbourne Storm, and the Perth Bears, who are set to join the competition in 2027.
“On the 24th of December, on the evidence that we’ve got from the production material, there was contact made by his lawyer with the club to propose three different clubs for Mr Lomax to go to potentially,” Moses stated via The Sydney Morning Herald.
However, the Raiders have refuted these claims, with CEO Don Furner categorically denying any discussions or interest in Lomax. Furner emphasized the club’s current roster constraints and lack of need for additional outside backs.
“That is absolute bullshit. Nobody has spoken about him, he’s never been mentioned,” Furner told The Sydney Morning Herald. “We haven’t got any space in the cap and we’re not looking for outside backs. I don’t know how they can make that up. That’s a lie.”
The Broader Context of Lomax’s Career Moves
Zac Lomax’s current predicament is rooted in his decision to leave the Eels for a venture outside rugby league, only to see that opportunity collapse. Initially, Lomax had secured a release from the Eels with the understanding that he would not play for another NRL club until the end of 2028 unless Parramatta granted permission.
Fox League analyst Paul Crawley weighed in on the situation, criticizing Lomax’s expectations to re-enter the NRL with the Storm without fulfilling his prior commitments.
“I think it’s outrageous from Zac Lomax to expect to get straight back into the NRL, I can’t see how he has a legal leg to stand on,” Crawley remarked on the Kayo Sports NRL podcast.
Implications for the NRL and Future Developments
The ongoing legal tussle between Lomax, the Eels, and the Storm highlights the complexities of player contracts and releases within the NRL. As the situation unfolds, it raises questions about player agency and the responsibilities of clubs in honoring contractual agreements.
Looking ahead, the NRL community will be watching closely to see how this dispute is resolved and what precedents it might set for future player movements. The Raiders’ strong denial of involvement underscores the importance of clear communication and transparency in such high-stakes negotiations.
As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes remain on the court’s decisions and the potential impact on the upcoming NRL season. The outcome could influence not only Lomax’s career but also the broader landscape of player transfers in the league.
