LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Lomax Enlists Lawyer in Battle to Join Storm
Zac Lomax's conflict with the Parramatta Eels has escalated as he has engaged renowned lawyer Ramy Qutami to help secure an unconditional release from his NRL contract, enabling a transfer to the Melbourne Storm.
According to the Daily Telegraph, Lomax aims to overturn a conditional release granted by the Eels in November. This release permitted him to explore opportunities in other sports but explicitly prohibited any move to a rival NRL team until the end of his contract in 2028.
Lomax had initially accepted these terms after requesting an early exit from a four-year deal just one season in.
The situation has evolved; Lomax's attempt to join the defunct rugby competition R360 has stagnated, especially after it was confirmed that the league will not commence until at least 2028. Consequently, the 26-year-old is now facing uncertainty regarding his professional future for the upcoming season.
Lomax's legal team is anticipated to argue that the original terms no longer accurately reflect his current situation.
Qutami, previously known for representing Israel Folau in his legal disputes with Rugby Australia, is stepping in to handle Lomax's case as tensions with the Eels rise.
The Melbourne Storm have expressed a strong interest in acquiring Lomax immediately, asserting they have the financial room to host him following the exits of players such as Ryan Papenhuyzen, Nelson Asofa-Solomona, and Jonah Pezet.