The National Rugby League (NRL) is considering a potential review of its current player contracting system following the high-profile standoff involving former Parramatta Eels star Zac Lomax and the Melbourne Storm.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo acknowledged on Wednesday that the league may explore changes, though any move would require careful consultation with key stakeholders, including clubs and the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA).
Lomax, 26, is at the center of a legal dispute after Parramatta blocked his attempts to join Melbourne, despite agreeing to release him from the final three years of his Eels contract. The contract stipulated that Lomax could not sign with a rival NRL club without Parramatta’s express written consent. Melbourne’s offers were reportedly rejected, leaving the former Origin and Test star in limbo, especially after the launch of the rebel R360 competition was delayed until 2028.
The case is now before the NSW Supreme Court, with hearings scheduled for March 2—just three days before the season opener between Melbourne and Parramatta. This timing makes it unlikely Lomax will be eligible to play in round one.
Abdo emphasized that the NRL remains committed to having the best talent in the game but stressed that the Lomax situation must first play out legally.
“For me, I want the best athletes in the world playing in the NRL and NRLW competition, full stop,” he said. “That all has to happen within our rules and clearly there are discussions happening now between Zac and the Eels that are the subject matter of a court case.”
While Abdo acknowledged that the saga could prompt a review of the contracting rules, he noted any potential changes would be a delicate matter requiring input from the ARL Commission and key stakeholders.
“Like anything in the sport, whether it’s on field or off field, we are always looking at the way we do things and how we can improve,” he said. “But this is an unusual case, given it’s related to the emergence of a new potential unsanctioned competition.”
NRL Commission chairman Peter V’landys has already expressed support for Lomax’s return to the sport, with the league closely monitoring the ongoing proceedings. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for future player movements and contract negotiations in the NRL.
