The NRL has warned clubs that referees will be actively enforcing obstruction rules should players continue to form illegal defensive walls to protect fullbacks and wingers.
That’s according to message from NRL head of football Graham Annesley reported in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Several clubs have used the controversial ploy in the opening weeks of 2026, most noticeably the Eels who formed an obvious wall to shield their No.1 Isaiah Iongi from Dragons kick chasers in Round 3 last Sunday.
While not a rule change per se, the NRL wants all 17 clubs to know a crackdown is on the way.
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“There has been a noticeable increase in incidents where players intentionally move towards a teammate who is attempting to catch a kick in general play,” Annesley is reported to have warned.
“While players are permitted to move toward the ball and take up a position, this does not override the clear obligation all players have under the International Laws of the Game to not obstruct an opponent who is not in possession of the ball.”
Of course, warning of a crackdown is one thing.
Whether clubs listen—or match officials are able to effectively police the ruling—remains to be seen.