For the club’s final two matches of the regular season, Arrow would lead the team onto the field before being recorded as the Rabbitohs’ first interchange within seconds of kick-off, without participating in play. He would then be permitted to remain on the interchange bench in his playing kit for the remainder of the match.

The rule approved by the NRL was a one-off exemption allowing South Sydney to name an additional player on its team list and interchange rotation.

The move followed a proposal by Rabbitohs’ officials to the NRL, the Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA) and the club consultation committee for Arrow to take the field in two more games, allowing him “to receive the recognition he deserves as a stalwart of the South Sydney club”.

Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly told NRL.com the club was grateful for the support from opposition clubs the Titans and the Roosters – the South Sydney side’s final two opponents – in accommodating the rule change.

“For Jai to be able to add these games to his tally against his former club, and at a game which we believe will be close-to, if not sold-out at Allianz Stadium, will be a fitting tribute to a player that has given his all to the Rabbitohs, Titans, Broncos and Queensland throughout his playing career,” he said.

“His fight against MND has already been inspirational, and we can’t wait to welcome Jai back onto the field for two more games to inspire everyone connected with Rugby League and in society in general.”

RLPA CEO Clint Newton said it was heartwarming to see the game find a special way to support Arrow.

“It speaks to how highly regarded Jai is by the people around him and the strength of the rugby league community when one of our own needs our love and support,” he told NRL.com.

“It’s devastating for Jai and the Arrow family, and I haven’t experienced a circumstance like this in my time in the game. Jai is a great person. It’s been incredible to see the rugby league community and broader sporting community get behind him and his family in such extraordinary ways of late.”

Before medically retiring at the start of 2026 Arrow had played 178 NRL matches. His first-grade career started in 2016 with 24 games across two seasons for the Brisbane Broncos, followed by 56 games for the Gold Coast Titans, then finally 98 games for South Sydney from 2021 – 2025.