LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The NRL has announced several rule changes for 2026, while opting to cancel the proposed alterations to kick-offs.
The initial suggestion for kick-off rule changes would have allowed a team that concedes a try to choose between kicking off or receiving the ball. However, following complaints from clubs regarding the potential alteration to the game's core structure, the NRL and ARLC decided against this proposal. Consequently, teams that concede a try will continue to kick off as they have traditionally.
Nevertheless, the ARLC has approved the kick-off rule change to be tested at the end of the season during matches that do not impact the finals.
Four additional rule changes have been approved, the most significant being an increase in game day squads to 19 players. The NRL and ARLC confirmed that the interchange cap will remain at eight, allowing only four out of six players to be utilized. This adjustment is intended to provide clubs with greater flexibility in managing early-game injuries or suspensions.
Further adjustments have been made to the rules concerning trainers, set restarts, and seven-tackle sets, as detailed below:
Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'Landys addressed the concerns regarding the proposed kick-off changes. "The consultation process was thorough and constructive, and while there was initial support for the kick-off proposal, stakeholders raised legitimate concerns," he stated.