Zac Lomax’s Return Delayed as Ryles Rules Out Early Comeback
Parramatta coach Jason Ryles has shut down speculation that Zac Lomax could make an early return from injury next week, despite fans getting excited after footage emerged of the star training with the team on Wednesday.
Lomax has been sidelined since Round 5, when he nailed a golden point field goal in an emotional win over his former club, the Dragons. He suffered a small fracture in his foot during that match and was initially projected to return in Round 11.
While there had been quiet optimism that Lomax might be ready to face the Dolphins next week, Ryles confirmed those chances are slim. “He was an outside chance for next week, but that’s off the table now,” he said. “He’s doing all the right things and progressing nicely, but bone injuries need time to properly heal.”
Lomax is now expected to return in two to three weeks, with Round 11 against the Knights looking most likely. That game will be his only chance to prove himself to New South Wales coach Laurie Daley before the State of Origin squad is selected. Lomax was a standout performer for the Blues last year and is tipped to reunite with Eels halfback Mitch Moses if both are fit.
Moses, who also dealt with a foot injury earlier in the season, made a triumphant return on Easter Monday with four try assists and a 40/20 in Parramatta’s win over the Tigers. His return revitalized the team’s attack, which had struggled in his absence.
With the Eels enjoying a bye last week, they now turn their focus to Magic Round, where they face a Sharks side that fell in golden point on Sunday. Ryles praised Moses’ impact and is hopeful of more of the same this weekend.
“He’s brought a real lift to the group,” Ryles said. “His leadership and organisation have been first class, and he’s continued to build on that this week. He’s improving his timing at training, and having him back has really helped our game management and confidence.”
Ryles also expressed faith in his backup halves to step up when Moses is unavailable during the Origin period, though he acknowledged the challenges they’ve faced learning on the go in the early part of the season.
