NRL backs down on proposed change to kick-off rule

‘Concerns’: Backflip on controversial NRL rule

A final call has been made on the controversial NRL kick-off rule as several changes were locked in for 2026.

NRL does major U-turn on eve of season: ‘Legitimate concerns’

The radical plan has been scrapped but a handful of new rules have been rushed in.

Change to rugby league kick-off rule delayed until end of season

A proposed rule change to the rugby league kick-off will not be enforced at the start of the 2026 NRL season and will instead be trialled during matches later in the year.

NRL backs down on proposed change to kick-off rule

The 17 clubs were against a push to change the kick-off rule and the NRL has listened.

NRL confirm rule changes for 2026

Four rules will be altered, while one will be trialled.

NRL backs down from controversial kick-off change • The Western Weekender

The NRL will retain existing kick-off rules, backing down from a controversial change it had been pushing in recent months. Sanity has prevailed with the plan to disrupt more than 100 years of tradition and have the scoring team kick-off after tries dumped. Under the rule, the conceding team would have been given the option to kick-off or receive the kick-off. “The ARLC acknowledged the strong engagement from stakeholders and noted that, while t…