NRL 2024 rule changes: five-minute sin bin, replacing players on cards in radical shake-up

The NRL has consulted several club bosses and commentators about two alternative changes to the sin-bin rule to combat foul play in 2024.

The five-minute sin bin could be back on the NRL agenda after head office asked club officials for their view on its return as part of a major overhaul of foul play that could also result in sin-binned players being replaced while they are off the field.

This masthead can reveal club bosses were recently sent a document asking for feedback on a range of issues that have reared their head during the recently completed season, chief among them the use of the sin bin.

A handful of club bosses and commentators have suggested the return of the five-minute sin bin in recent years as concern has grown over the impact playing one man short can have on the result of games.

It is understood the NRL raised the question in direct response to suggestions from clubland.

Referee Mick Stone sends Queensland captain to the bin for five during Origin II in 1988. The five-minute sin bin could make a return for the first time since 1991.

It would represent a significant shake-up for the game — sending players to the bin for five minutes was abolished in 1991 amid concerns over its inconsistent use by referees.

Its possible return has been discussed ad nauseam in recent seasons but the fact the clubs have now been asked for their thoughts suggests it is a serious consideration for the NRL and ARL Commission as they look back at the good and bad from 2023.

NRL head of football Graham Annesley declined to comment on the matter but confirmed the NRL had begun collating feedback from clubs, stakeholders and fans on the season.

“We currently going through a process of obtaining feedback from key stakeholders including clubs, partners and club members,” Annesley said.

“We’re in the process of collating all of that information so that we can present it to the commission for their direction on next steps.”

Interestingly, club bosses were also asked their thoughts on the potential to replace a player sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes.

Seven-time premiership-winning coach Wayne Bennett earlier this year floated the idea of increasing the sin-bin period to 15 minutes but allowing the offending team to use an interchange to replace the player amid concern over the impact sin bins were having on results.

Dolphins forward Ray Stone was controversially given 10 in the bin against the Roosters this season. Picture: NRL Photos

Under the headline ‘Dealing with Foul Play’, the NRL has asked club officials: “What is your feedback on the introduction of the use of a “forced interchange” system for all sin bins.

“The player sent to the 10-minute sin bin can be replaced through an available interchange. If no interchange is available, the player is not replaced.”

Club bosses have also been asked for their views on the use of the bunker, the judicial system, the head injury assessment rules as well as any rule changes they think should be considered for next season.

Originally published as NRL 2024 rule changes: five-minute sin bin, replacing players on cards in radical shake-up