The Canberra Raiders' playing group is divided over a major rule change set to shake up the National Rugby League in 2026, with forward Hudson Young and five-eighth Ethan Strange expressing opposing views.
Controversial Kick-Off Change Sparks Debate
The NRL's plan, which will be trialled in the pre-season and implemented for the 2026 NRL season, will see the team that scores a try also take the subsequent kick-off. The move is designed to reduce the frequency of lopsided scorelines by handing possession back to the conceding team.
Raiders veteran Hudson Young voiced strong reservations about the proposal on Thursday. He believes it could stifle dramatic comebacks, a hallmark of the sport's excitement.
"Not really," Young said when asked if he liked the change. "I feel like it probably takes away that exciting part if a team is coming back at the end. You just turn to receive the ball and change momentum that way."
While expressing trust in ARL Commission chairman Peter V'landys, Young remained unconvinced. His teammate, Ethan Strange, however, sees potential benefits for the spectacle of the game.
Strange Sees Upside for Game Fairness
"It probably makes games a little bit more fair and you've got less chance to blowout if you're kicking off after you score a try," Strange argued. "I guess it's more excitement and more entertainment for the fans. Whatever the NRL do... we'll just adapt around it."
The statistics driving the change show a clear trend. In the 2025 NRL season, there were 68 games decided by 20 points or more, an increase from 61 the previous year. However, close contests also rose, with 138 games decided by six points or less, up from 120 in 2024.
Raiders CEO Don Furner, who witnessed the same rule during Super League's single season, has previously stated he saw no impact then and questions its reintroduction now.
New Halfback Earns Universal Praise
While opinions on the rule differ, Young and Strange presented a united front on the club's new playmaker, Ethan Sanders. Sanders is set to fill the crucial halfback role following Jamal Fogarty's departure to the Manly Sea Eagles.
Strange, who will form the Raiders' new halves partnership, was effusive in his praise, highlighting their existing chemistry from past collaborations like the under-19 State of Origin.
"[He's] slotted straight in like a glove," Strange said. "I enjoy playing with 'Sando', he's a good mate off the field as well... He's got a very mature footy brain, which is good for everyone around. He's like a veteran out there."
Young echoed the sentiment, noting the club's long-term plan for Sanders while also acknowledging the promise of young recruit Coby Black. The 19-year-old, signed from the Brisbane Broncos, provides important depth in the number seven jersey.
"Sanders has been in the system now for over 12 months," Young explained. "[Coach] Ricky Stuart and the coaches had that plan when they signed Sando... He's the bloke that's going to come in. Coby Black's... going to be a great player for the club as well."
The Raiders' new-look spine will get its first official hit-out in a pre-season trial against the Melbourne Storm at Seiffert Oval on February 13.
