Updated July 15, 2026 — 3:14pm,first published 2:24pmThe PNG Chiefs have tabled code-hopping star Zac Lomax a multi-year deal to lure the former NSW State of Origin winger back to rugby league in 2028.Lomax, who joined Super Rugby’s Western Force this year and is targeting a Wallabies World Cup berth next season, is being targeted as a marquee player for the Chiefs inaugural season in the NRL.Zac Lomax is currently contracted to the Western Force.Getty ImagesThe 26-year-old has met with PNG officials and informed sources have indicated that at least a two-year deal has been discussed. Both parties are also open to a longer agreement.Lomax is yet to visit Port Moresby and the Chiefs planned resort-style accommodation to house players and staff, but he has played several games in the Pacific nation for the Australian PM’s XIII.News of Lomax’s targeting by the Chiefs came to light in PNG media on Wednesday as the cross-code star confirmed he would be seeing out his two-year deal with the Force, having knocked back a chance to return to the NRL with the Storm in 2027.Melbourne had raised the prospect of Parramatta granting permission for Lomax to sign with the Storm – he cannot play for a rival club without the Eels consent as per a Supreme Court order earlier this year, given the Eels are keen to sign centre Jack Howarth for next season.Zac Lomax’s Parramatta stint ended up lasting only 12 months.Getty ImagesBut in a major blow for Lomax and his dream of becoming a dual international, the big winger is likely to be sidelined until October with a serious groin injury, meaning a potential Wallabies debut will be delayed until November at the earliest.After finishing the Super Rugby Pacific season for the Force in May, Lomax was not considered for the Wallabies’ squad for the July Tests after a chronic groin complaint flared up and required rehabilitation.Lomax is suffering from osteitis pubis – an overuse injury common in goalkickers and AFL players – and while there was initially some hope he may return in August, and be in the mix for Wallabies selection under new coach Les Kiss, the timeline has been pushed out by several months.Lomax is now targeting a return to rugby for the Australia A team, who are playing two games in the USA on October 25 and 31, under new coach Stephen Larkham.Lomax could also be on the Wallabies spring tour, which kicks off against England at Twickenham on November 8.Though the Rugby Championship won’t be contested in 2026, due to New Zealand touring South Africa, the Wallabies still play seven Tests between August and November, against Japan, Argentina, the Springboks and the All Blacks.More to come.From our partners