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Melbourne’s pursuit of Zac Lomax could prove more costly than expected if the NRL deems the club’s promise to cover the exiled winger’s legal bills should be included in the Storm’s salary cap.
Parramatta began legal proceedings to prevent Lomax from joining the Storm, given his release from a four-year contract was contingent on the Eels providing written consent. The Blues winger was granted a release to join rebel rugby competition R360, but has been left in limbo after its inaugural season was put back until 2028.
Former Eels star Zac Lomax.Credit: Getty Images
Lomax’s hopes of making his Melbourne debut against former club Parramatta in the opening round have been thwarted after his court hearing was scheduled to end a day after the AAMI Park clash.
According to court documents made available last week, the Eels claim the Storm indemnified Lomax’s court expenses.
“On or around 13 January 2026, or alternatively a time thereafter, the Melbourne Storm agreed to pay the legal costs of Mr Lomax to defend proceedings commenced by the Parramatta Eels against Mr Lomax to enforce the Deed of Release,” the Eels stated in one of their submissions.
In their written response, the Storm confirmed the arrangement.
That deal has piqued the interest of several NRL clubs, who are watching the potential salary-cap implications. Given the quality of the legal teams engaged on both sides, the five-day hearing and the ongoing work already completed, each side’s costs are expected to reach six figures. Several sources contacted by this masthead, not authorised to speak publicly given the matter remains before the courts, estimated they could potentially exceed $250,000 for each party.
Even if Lomax won the court case and was awarded costs, it’s likely Parramatta wouldn’t be ordered to pay more than two-thirds of his legal bill. That would leave the Storm to pick up the remainder, a payment that could raise the interest of the NRL’s salary-cap auditor.
The NRL won’t make any determinations until the matter is resolved in court. The NRL, Parramatta and the Storm were contacted for comment.
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