Parramatta Eels forward Shaun Lane has decided to step away from rugby league for the time being as he reflects on his future in the sport, following his demotion to reserve grade amid new coach Jason Ryles’ squad overhaul.
According to The Daily Telegraph, Lane will not feature in this weekend’s matches after being dropped to the NSW Cup and has since chosen to take an indefinite break from the game.
The Eels have backed Lane’s decision, although it remains uncertain whether this move signals an impending retirement or a temporary pause in his career.
“Shaun Lane is taking some time away from the game to consider his future and won’t be playing this weekend,” the club confirmed in a statement. “As a club we are supporting him through this period.”
Lane had been scheduled to play in the Eels’ NSW Cup clash on Easter Monday, in a strong lineup that included Queensland representative Joe Ofahengaue, as well as Bryce Cartwright, Wiremu Greig, and Ryan Matterson.
However, Ofahengaue has since left the club to sign a long-term deal with English Super League side Leigh, immediately freeing up salary cap space. The Eels also stand to benefit financially from Dylan Brown’s upcoming move to the Newcastle Knights in 2026, which opens up around $1 million annually.
Lane, who has a year remaining on his contract worth approximately $500,000, has struggled to find form since undergoing minor knee surgery in the off-season. He missed the opening round of 2025 but featured in the following five games. A disappointing performance in the Eels’ heavy 50-12 defeat to Canberra in Round 6 led to his demotion.
Since arriving at Parramatta in 2019, Lane has been a key player, rarely missing first-grade selection and playing a major role in the team’s 2022 Grand Final run. He was named the club’s player of the year that season and has also received the coaches’ award, players’ player, and the community award during his tenure.
Lane has scored 36 tries in 186 NRL appearances across stints with the Bulldogs, Warriors, Sea Eagles, and Eels since making his debut in 2015.
