ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys has expressed strong support for a proposed change to the National Rugby League’s kick-off rules, aimed at enhancing the game’s entertainment value as negotiations for the next broadcast deal approach. Despite resistance from most NRL clubs, V’landys believes the change could add a tactical element that will attract more viewers.
The proposed rule, which allows teams conceding a try to choose whether they kick off, has met with near-universal opposition from clubs, with South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett being a notable exception. V’landys, however, is adamant that innovation is crucial for the sport’s growth. “We’re in the consultation period, so we’re listening to everybody’s views,” V’landys told The Daily Telegraph. “Once we consider it all, we’ll make the decision.”
Consultation and Resistance
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo is scheduled to meet with club representatives this week to discuss the proposed rule changes, which are set to take effect in the 2026 season. The initial response from clubs has been largely negative, but V’landys remains steadfast in his belief that the sport must evolve to remain competitive. “What people have to understand is that we have to make the game exciting for the fans,” V’landys emphasized.
The league has seen a significant increase in viewership, from 137 million in 2019 to 224 million, a testament to the success of previous rule changes under V’landys’ leadership. His tenure has been marked by the introduction of the “six-again” rule and the “two-point field goal,” both of which faced initial skepticism but ultimately contributed to a more engaging on-field product.
Broadcast Deal and Financial Implications
The timing of the proposed rule change is critical, as the NRL is on the verge of negotiating a new broadcast deal projected to exceed $5 billion. V’landys argues that maintaining and increasing fan engagement is essential to securing lucrative media contracts. “Sometimes leadership means you’ve got to make tough decisions,” he said. “You listen to people, but at the end of the day, as custodians, you do what you believe is in the best interests of the game.”
“We had 137 million viewers in 2019. Now we’ve got 224 million.” — Peter V’landys
Strategic Entertainment and Future Prospects
The proposed kick-off rule is designed to introduce an element of unpredictability, potentially preventing lopsided scorelines and adding strategic depth to the game. “The fact you can choose to kick off or receive is tactical,” V’landys explained. “It brings unpredictability to the game.”
As the NRL looks to the future, the league’s leadership is focused on balancing tradition with innovation. The success of past rule changes suggests that the proposed kick-off adjustment could similarly enhance the sport’s appeal. However, the decision will ultimately depend on the outcome of ongoing consultations with clubs and stakeholders.
With the broadcast deal looming, the NRL’s leadership faces the challenge of making decisions that will shape the sport’s trajectory for years to come. The proposed rule change is just one of many strategies being considered to ensure the NRL remains a dynamic and financially robust entity.
