Peter V’landys defends NRL set restart rules amid player backlash

ARL Commission chair Peter V’landys has clashed with NRL players over the implementation of expanded set restart rules. During the 2026 finals launch, V’landys dismissed criticisms from players, stating he does not believe their claims regarding rule enforcement.

Players, including Roosters captain James Tedesco and Melbourne Storm hooker Harry Grant, have expressed frustration with ruck interpretations and the widened ‘six-again’ remit. Grant questioned the direction of the sport, asking if the league intends to play ‘touch football or rugby league?’

Data from The Rugby League Eye Test shows that set restarts have increased to an average of 8.4 per game in the final four rounds, a nearly 30 per cent rise compared to the mid-season average. Despite the ongoing debate and calls for review from the RLPA, V’landys suggested the rules would remain in place for 2027.