The National Rugby League is poised to introduce a suite of rule changes for the 2026 season, with the governing body currently in discussions with clubs to finalise the updates. The proposed adjustments, which include a significant shift in kick-off procedures and larger game-day squads, have already ignited debate within the rugby league community.
Proposed Changes Aim to Tweak Momentum and Speed
According to a letter from NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo that was leaked to News Corp, several key amendments are on the table. The most notable change involves the team that concedes points being given the choice to either kick off or receive the kick-off. This move is designed to reduce the momentum swings that often occur when a scoring team immediately regains possession.
Other proposed changes include increasing game-day squad sizes from 17 to 19 players, though the interchange will remain capped at eight uses across four of the six bench players. This would give coaches greater flexibility to cover for in-game injuries.
The NRL is also looking to modify rules around set restarts and penalties. It is proposed that six-again calls would replace penalties anywhere outside a team's own 20-metre line, rather than just beyond the 40-metre line, aiming to create a faster game with fewer stoppages.
Furthermore, the seven-tackle set could become less common. Under the new proposal, a team that knocks on in the act of scoring would only concede a six-tackle restart, not a seven-tackle set. The seven-tackle rule would remain for when the attacking team kicks the ball dead in-goal.
Coaches Consulted, Critics Voice Concerns
The NRL has been consulting with a group of coaches as part of its post-season review, a process that included Canberra Raiders mentor Ricky Stuart. He was reportedly joined by other high-profile coaches with Raiders links, including Michael Maguire, Wayne Bennett, and Craig Bellamy.
While the changes are intended to refine the sport, they have not been universally welcomed. Former Raiders playmaker and now media pundit Blake Austin issued a stark warning to the game's administrators.
"I don't think they are changes, I think they're reversing some of the s---ty rules they've already implemented over the last few years," Austin said on social media. "My issue is, why every year do we sit down and think about ways to change what is the best and greatest sport in the world? Let the game be. Leave it how it is."
Canterbury Bulldogs general manager and commentator Phil Gould also offered a cryptic response, stating on social media: "Rule changes... word on the street suggests we have plenty of rule changes heading our way. Funny game rugby league."
Timeline and Final Approval
The NRL has not set a firm date for the official announcement of the finalised rules for the 2026 season. However, it is expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks as clubs intensify their pre-season training following the holiday break.
The proposed adjustments represent the latest chapter in the NRL's ongoing efforts to shape the flow and fairness of the competition, a process that has become an annual tradition but continues to divide opinion among players, coaches, and fans.
