The NRL have made a significant change in their rule set for 2016 by confirming they will reduce the amount of interchanges in the game from ten to eight.
After consulting with the Rugby Football League – who will now make their own recommendation to Super League clubs – the NRL have opted to bring in arguably the most significant rule changes in years, which includes the reduction of interchanges.
As well as that, they have announced plans to introduce a shot clock for drop-outs and scrums to reduce stoppages following a review conducted by experts headed by Dr Kevin Norton, a professor of exercise science in the School of Health Sciences at the University of South Australia.
“We think these changes are a significant first step because they will reward endurance and fitness and open up the game,” the NRL’s Todd Greenberg said.
“As a result of these changes, there will be a greater emphasis on skill to complement power and size.
“We have conducted significant research into the evolution of, and current trends in, the game – how the players are getting bigger, faster and stronger, but more importantly what they will look like 10 years from now.
“We believe that, unless we take action now, the game will become more structured, defensive and predictable in years to come.
“We want the best football being played by the best footballers, and all our research points to these changes having a significant impact on the quality of games that our supporters deserve every week.”
