The National Rugby League (NRL) is currently engaged in discussions regarding several proposed rule changes for the 2026 season, including a significant modification to kick-off procedures, which has met with reported rejection from all 17 clubs. Concurrently, a dispute involving player Zac Lomax's potential transfer from the Parramatta Eels to the Melbourne Storm is being addressed, raising concerns about contract integrity among rival clubs.
Proposed Kick-Off Rule Under Review
A key proposed rule change would allow the team that has just conceded a try to choose whether to kick off or receive the ball to restart the game. This modification is intended to introduce tactical elements, increase unpredictability, potentially reduce lopsided scorelines, and help balance possession between teams. It is also viewed by some as a measure to reduce momentum shifts during games.
Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V'landys has stated support for the proposed change, citing the importance of innovation for the game's growth. V'landys noted that previous rule changes during his tenure, such as the “six-again” rule and the “two-point field goal,” initially faced opposition but contributed to the on-field product. He also referenced a growth in viewership from 137 million in 2019 to 224 million. The ARLC is currently in a consultation phase with stakeholders, and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo is scheduled to meet with clubs to discuss potential rule changes for the 2026 season. The new kick-off rule is expected to be implemented during trial matches.
Club and Coaching Perspectives
Despite the ARLC's stated position, all 17 NRL clubs have reportedly rejected the proposed kick-off rule change for the 2026 season. Clubs have communicated opposition, citing concerns that the change would alter the "fabric of the game," lead to increased confusion, and create unnecessary stoppages. Additionally, clubs raised concerns about player safety, suggesting that the rule could increase player fatigue, injury risk, and exposure to concussions.
Coaching opinions on the proposed kick-off rule are divided. Wayne Bennett has expressed support, stating it would offer greater flexibility and help balance possession, adding that opposing teams could continue to kick off as traditionally done. Conversely, former player and commentator Matty Johns, echoed by Cooper Johns, commented that teams should focus on improving their defense rather than relying on rule changes to artificially level the playing field.
Other Rule Change Proposals
Beyond the kick-off modification, other rule changes have been considered:
- Six-Again Restart Zone: A proposal to reduce the six-again restart zone from 40 meters to 20 meters was also rejected by clubs. Clubs argued this could incentivize repeated infringements and negatively impact player welfare improvements.
- Supported Modifications: Clubs expressed some support for modifications such as removing seven-tackle restarts for accidental in-goal breaches and introducing certain interchange adjustments.
A unifying demand from clubs is that any new rule changes should be thoroughly trialed before being implemented at the NRL level.
Zac Lomax Transfer Dispute
Separately, the NRL is addressing a player transfer dispute involving Zac Lomax, who has three years remaining on his contract with the Parramatta Eels but is seeking a move to the Melbourne Storm for the 2026 season. This situation has drawn comparisons to Sonny Bill Williams' 2008 departure from Canterbury and has prompted concerns about contract integrity among rival clubs.
At a recent conference, rival club executives expressed a unanimous view that the NRL should support the Parramatta Eels and prevent Lomax from joining the Storm without the Eels' full consent. Melbourne Storm CEO Justin Rodski presented a case for Lomax to be allowed to join a third club in as many years, encountering significant opposition from other club representatives.
Parramatta's conditions for Lomax's release stipulate that he cannot play for another NRL club until 2029 without their permission. Reports indicate the Eels might consider releasing Lomax for a suitable exchange, with Jack Howarth mentioned as a potential swap player, alongside a financial component.
The head of the R360 rugby competition, Mike Tindall, stated that NRL players and their agents approached R360, rather than R360 actively recruiting them. The NRL is encouraging the Storm and Eels to find a mutually acceptable resolution, with a view that if no agreement is reached, Lomax should not be permitted to return to the NRL in the immediate future. The possibility of a legal challenge, potentially citing restraint of trade, has been raised if the clubs do not reach an agreement. NRL clubs have called on the league to strongly support Parramatta in such a scenario.