NRL set to tweak six-again rule

The NRL has been ground zero for a series of rule changes in our great game over the last few years.

Whether it’s been the introduction of a two-point field goal, a new approach to the video referee or even the divisive six-again rule which we has since featured in Super League after being introduced following the mid-season break in 2020 due to the pandemic.

However, Australian Rugby league Commission Chairman Peter V’landys has suggested that no such changes will take place over the off-season and that the 2022 campaign will likely abide by the same rule set as its predecessor.

That said, he has suggested that there could be a tweak to the six-again rule punishing teams who cynically give away six again in their territory.

In fact, in the Sydney Morning Herald he’s quoted as saying: “A lot of the coaches have said when they’re stuck in their own half it’s not much of an advantage [to receive a six-again].

“It is one area that has been mentioned that we will certainly look at. It could be that it might not be a six-again when you’re in your own defensive end, and instead a penalty.”

V’landys is set receive a report this week from the NRL’s consultations with all 16 clubs concerning a number of issues as the competition looks to combat the blowout scores which became frequent last season.

On this and any potential changes to the rules including the tweak to the six-again interpretation, V’landys said: “None of this has been approved, but it has been raised and it will all come under consideration when we see the final report. But from my understanding, the Commission would prefer to consolidate this year rather than make a lot of change.”