The National Rugby League (NRL) is in the midst of a significant transformation, with the opening rounds of the 2026 season sparking fervent debate about the future direction of the sport. While league officials are quick to highlight surging television ratings and viewer engagement, a chorus of former players lament the evolution of a game they once cherished. The fanbase itself appears divided; a substantial portion embraces the accelerated pace and dynamic play, while others find themselves alienated by the seemingly incessant stream of “six-again” infringements.
As an observer, the current landscape presents a complex picture. There’s a palpable frustration with the extreme level of nitpicking from referees, which frequently leads to repeated set restarts. The distinctive “six-again” siren has become a near-constant soundtrack to matches, a sound that can induce cringes and even haunt dreams. Yet, paradoxically, the thrill of the game is undeniable. Witnessing moments like Alex Johnston’s electrifying charge towards a potential try-scoring record, or the sheer spectacle of the high-scoring Souths and Dolphins clash, ignites a passion that resonates deeply. A game punctuated by the occasional “40-30” kick is, for many, an exciting prospect.
While the six-again crackdown is likely to remain a dominant talking point until the State of Origin series, a more subtle yet significant pattern has emerged from this faster, more fluid style of play, a pattern that has been brought to light through discussions with fellow rugby league enthusiasts. This pattern points to a dramatic and sustained increase in the prominence and impact of the NRL’s second-rowers.
During the initial surge of “six-again” calls, often dubbed “PVL Ball” in reference to the COVID-19 era, fullbacks ascended to become arguably the most crucial players on the field. Stars like Tom Trbojevic dominated Dally M Medal voting, while Ryan Papenhuyzen and James Tedesco eclipsed established halves as the game’s premier talents. While the importance of halves will always remain paramount in my view, the current statistics undeniably favour the second-row position. They are, it appears, thriving under the new interpretations.
Consider the try-scoring figures for second-rowers. In 2025, across the opening two rounds, NRL second-rowers (both starting and those brought into the role) collectively crossed for nine tries. Fast forward to 2026, and that number has exploded to a remarkable 21 tries in the same period. While acknowledging the small sample size, this represents an astonishing increase of 133.33%. Beyond tries, other metrics also paint a compelling picture. At the conclusion of Round 2 in 2026, second-rowers had registered 19 line-breaks, an increase from 15 in the previous season. This jump of four line-breaks, representing over a 25% surge in just two rounds, is not insignificant.
The statistical surge is intuitively understandable. The game is faster, with the ball being moved wide more frequently. This creates opportunities for big, athletic second-rowers to exploit tiring halves and retreating opposition back-rowers, running onto the ball in space.
This shift may offer a partial explanation for the early struggles of the Brisbane Broncos. With the utmost respect to their current second-row contingent, it has been an area of concern for the team. While the impending return of Brendan Piakura will undoubtedly bolster the position, Jordan Riki has faced considerable challenges, and Jack Gosiewski has not capitalised on his opportunities.
In contrast, the Melbourne Storm and Penrith Panthers appear to have flourished under the new rules. While these established powerhouses would likely adapt to any rule interpretation, their second-rowers are particularly well-suited to the current dynamic. Players like Joe Chan and Ativalu Lisati possess the physicality and mobility of centres, making them potent weapons on the edge. Isaiah Papali’i and Luke Garner form a formidable partnership, and it will be intriguing to observe Liam Martin’s adaptation, with a potential move into the middle forwards not out of the question.
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have also demonstrated significant gains, with Jacob Preston and Viliame Kikau wreaking havoc out wide. They could well be the biggest beneficiaries of this faster game, boasting what many consider the premier second-row combination in the competition.
Another team poised to experience a substantial uplift is the Wests Tigers. The combination of Kai Pearce-Paul and Samuela Fainu promises to inflict considerable damage in the coming weeks.
Of course, team fortunes are not solely dictated by the exploits of their rampaging back-rowers. However, the sheer magnitude of the try-scoring statistic for second-rowers – 21 tries across 16 games, excluding locks who are considered middle forwards – is difficult to ignore. While a detailed analysis of lock statistics has not been undertaken, any increase in their try-scoring has not been as pronounced as that of their second-row counterparts.
For those keeping score, seven tries were scored by second-rowers in Round 3 of the 2025 season. It would be a bold prediction to suggest a lower number will be posted this coming weekend; it would be more surprising if it wasn’t around ten.
This trend has not escaped the notice of coaches. The astute minds of Craig Bellamy, Ivan Cleary, and Ricky Stuart will undoubtedly be imparting specific instructions to their second-rowers this weekend. Halves, too, will be acutely aware of the changing dynamics. The increased space and early fatigue developing on the edges present opportunities for clever playmakers to exploit.
This evolution of the game is not something to be disliked. The sight of players like Kikau, Olakau’atu, and others breaking defensive lines and crossing the try-line is a spectacle that rugby league fans relish. They have been the early beneficiaries of this faster, more expansive game, and it is unlikely this trend will abate any time soon.
