Joe Ofahengaue Faces Possible NRL Sanction Over Prank
Joe Ofahengaue may find himself in trouble with NRL officials after a sideline prank involving Parramatta Eels teammate Zac Lomax during a live interview.
The incident occurred on Friday night as Lomax, who wasn’t playing in the Eels’ trial match against the Newcastle Knights, was being interviewed by Fox Sports reporter Eloise Sohier. As the interview took place, Ofahengaue walked past in the background after warming up, then turned back, snuck up behind Lomax, and pulled his shorts down to his ankles – a prank commonly referred to as ‘dacking.’
While Lomax was wearing underwear and wasn’t fully exposed, he appeared visibly embarrassed. The moment also played out in front of Sohier and a crowd that included young children, making it an awkward and unprofessional scene.
The NRL Roast social media account shared the footage, with some describing Ofahengaue’s actions as “cheeky” and amusing. However, many others criticized the prank as immature and called for the NRL to take action, arguing it reflected poorly on the league.
Beyond the embarrassment for Lomax, the incident raises concerns about the treatment of female journalists in the NRL. Many felt it sent the wrong message to aspiring female reporters, as well as to parents who want to see a professional and respectful culture in rugby league.
Though Ofahengaue’s actions were likely meant as a harmless joke, the setting was inappropriate, and Sohier was put in an uncomfortable position while simply doing her job. Social media reactions were mixed, with one person commenting, “This, in front of a female reporter, is immature and wrong.” Another wrote, “This is not funny, it’s disgraceful and embarrassing,” while a third added, “Not a culture (coach Jason) Ryles would like, I bet.”
Dylan Brown Shines Amid Eels Contract Speculation
On the field, the Jason Ryles era at Parramatta got off to an impressive start as the Eels cruised to a 44-18 victory over Newcastle. Five-eighth Dylan Brown played a starring role, scoring the opening try and leading the team’s attack, while new signings also made an impact.
Ronald Volkman was in top form in his first game in 17 months, and rookie fullback Isaiah Iongi showed he could be a key figure for the Eels moving forward. However, Brown’s future remains uncertain, with reports suggesting he is seeking a $1.2 million-per-season deal and could use his exit clause to explore options elsewhere before Round 10. The Knights are among the clubs reportedly interested in signing the Kiwi international if he becomes available.
For Newcastle, Fletcher Sharpe put in a promising display at five-eighth and appears set to take on the No.6 role this season, though he remains a work in progress as he transitions from wing and fullback.
