Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Zac Lomax is reportedly moving closer to a 2028 National Rugby League return with the PNG Chiefs after rejecting an attempt by the Melbourne Storm to bring him back next season from the Western Force in Perth.
The 26-year-old remains contracted to the Western Force through the end of 2027 and intends to honour that agreement. Talks with the PNG Chiefs are reportedly advanced, although no contract has been announced.
Zac Lomax’s immediate focus remains rugby union as the Wallabies target an Italy victory to spare Joe Schmidt a record low.
Rugby World Cup Remains the Priority
The Melbourne Storm examined a deal that would have delivered Zac Lomax for the 2027 NRL season. The move collapsed when Zac Lomax decided against ending his Western Force contract early.
The official Western Force announcement confirms Zac Lomax joined the Super Rugby Pacific club on a two-year agreement with Rugby Australia.
Zac Lomax is aiming to earn Wallabies selection for the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home soil. That goal means any return to rugby league is unlikely before his current union commitments end.
The outside back was unavailable for Australia’s July Nations Championship squad but remains part of the official Western Force men’s team.
PNG Chiefs Move Ahead of Melbourne Storm
The PNG Chiefs have reportedly offered Zac Lomax a contract for their first NRL season in 2028. The move would make him one of the expansion club’s leading signings alongside Jarome Luai.
Zac Lomax has already represented the New South Wales Blues and Australia in rugby league. He previously played for the St George Illawarra Dragons and Parramatta Eels before switching codes.
His ability to play centre or wing, carry strongly from the backfield and kick goals would give the PNG Chiefs several options in their inaugural squad.
The Melbourne Storm have missed their chance to secure Zac Lomax immediately, but the PNG Chiefs appear prepared to wait. Any deal would allow Zac Lomax to complete his rugby union contract before returning to the 13-player code.