The International Rugby league (IRL) Board has officially endorsed a proposal from the ARL Commission to adopt NRL and NRLW rule interpretations for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
The decision means the much maligned set restart rules will be in play for the end-of-season tournament hosted in Australia and PNG, along with a range of other laws that differ from those currently used in the northern hemisphere.
Two-point field-goals and six-player benches will be introduced for the men’s matches, while women’s matches played over 70 minutes instead of 80.
Announcing the use of local rule interpretations, the IRL says they will enable the World Cup tournament to seamlessly integrate existing technology used in the NRL and NRLW including the video review bunker, captain’s challenges and shot clocks for scrums, goal line dropouts and goal kicks.
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HIA and match review processes will also be identical to those currently in place for the NRL.
“(The rules changes) will ensure consistency and familiarity for fans, broadcasters and key tournament stakeholders as well as coaches and players – the majority of whom are expected to be drawn from the NRL and NRLW,” the IRL explained.
“RLWC2026 officials are working closely with the governing bodies of all nations to ensure clear comprehension of the rules and interpretations in the lead-up to the tournament.”
At the previous World Cup hosted in England a hybrid of rules from both hemispheres was adopted.
The 2026 World Cup begins in Sydney on October 15 when Australia takes on Pacific Cup champions New Zealand at Allianz Stadium, 11 days after the NRL Grand Final.