Parramatta Eels’ marquee signing Zac Lomax has been ruled out for up to six weeks after scans confirmed a minor foot fracture suffered during his side’s dramatic golden-point win over the St George Illawarra Dragons.
In a display of extraordinary grit, Lomax played through the pain to deliver the match-winning field goal against his former club, before later learning he had sustained a fracture. The injury blow couldn’t have come at a worse time for the Eels, who are beginning to find momentum in their 2025 NRL campaign.
Lomax’s absence will also be felt beyond club level, with the 24-year-old now in serious doubt for the opening State of Origin clash scheduled for May 28. New South Wales coach Laurie Daley had earmarked Lomax for a key role on the wing, hoping to harness his kicking game and aerial prowess to break Queensland’s recent dominance.
Parramatta coach Brad Arthur lauded Lomax’s toughness and impact on the squad.
“He’s been enormous for us since arriving,” Arthur said. “To kick the winning field goal with a fractured foot shows the kind of player he is—tough, reliable, and a true competitor.”
The Eels are set to face the Canberra Raiders in Darwin this week, with Arthur now forced to reshuffle his backline in Lomax’s absence. Youngster Blaize Talagi and veteran Waqa Blake are in contention to fill the void.
With Origin looming and Parramatta fighting to stay in finals contention, all eyes will be on Lomax’s recovery as both club and state hold their breath.
