Get ready for some hot NRL action and controversy!
The 2026 NRL season has kicked off with a bang, and it's already raising eyebrows with its inconsistent rulings on high tackles.
Consistency is key, or so they say, but is it really being practiced?
Let's dive into the drama that unfolded over the weekend in Las Vegas.
The match review committee and referees are under scrutiny for their handling of high contact incidents. And it all started before the double-header at Allegiant Stadium.
Penrith's star player, Nathan Cleary, was initially banned for the season opener due to a high tackle charge. But wait, there's a twist! His father and coach, Ivan Cleary, stepped in, and the charge was reduced from grade two to grade one.
Ivan argued that the contact wasn't direct to the head, and he even suggested the NRL might need to upgrade their TV equipment for better reviews.
But here's where it gets controversial...
In the season opener, Braidon Burns of the Cowboys was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga. Yet, in the very next game, Stephen Crichton of the Bulldogs appeared to make a similar tackle on Setu Tu, but he escaped without a sin bin or charge.
This inconsistency has left fans and commentators scratching their heads.
Billy Slater, a Storm legend, expressed his surprise and concern, emphasizing the duty of care towards players. He believes the rules should provide protection when players are vulnerable.
Dragons coach Shane Flanagan also couldn't hide his frustration, carefully avoiding a fine while agreeing with the inconsistency.
And this is the part most people miss...
The NRL's high tackle crackdown last season resulted in a backlash, with 18 sin bins in a single round. While regression to the mean was expected, the issue of differing perspectives between officials and everyone else remains.
So, what's the solution? Will the NRL address this inconsistency soon?
Share your thoughts in the comments! Is this a fair concern, or are these incidents being blown out of proportion?
Stay tuned for more NRL news and debates!
