The chair of the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC), Peter V’landys, has stirred controversy by suggesting that players should not face penalties for accidental high contact during matches. In light of a recent surge in sin-binnings—18 players were penalised in Round 8, primarily for high contact—V’landys acknowledged the need for referees to better handle such incidents. He indicated that “mistakes” made in officiating over the past weeks will be addressed as they move into Round 9, which is highlighted by the Magic Round hosted in Brisbane.
Rugby legends Andrew Johns and Phil Gould have been vocal, pushing for the NRL to reassess its approach to high contact, especially after a match wherein an incident involving Fonua Pole of the Tigers drew significant backlash. The situation prompted Johns, expressing his frustration, to leave the commentary booth.
Acknowledging the referees’ challenging role, V’landys stated that last week’s officiating went beyond acceptable limits and promised that adjustments would be made in time for the upcoming weekend matches. He insisted on greater leniency regarding “mitigation” factors—referring to situations where players are liable to be struck in the head due to falling, implying that such incidents should not warrant sin-binning.
When questioned about the criteria for sin-binning, V’landys stressed that intentional high contact should certainly be penalised, but accidental hits should not lead to automatic punishment. He reaffirmed that any deliberate and forceful strikes to the head would still be met with penalties.
This announcement is expected to be a point of discussion among fans and commentators alike, especially since intentional head strikes are exceedingly rare in the sport. V’landys’s remarks will likely contribute to ongoing confusion over the enforcement of the rules, as the pressure mounts on match officials with significant attention on Suncorp Stadium during the Magic Round.