The upcoming changes to the NRL interchange rules promise to transform the landscape of the game, potentially sparing teams from disaster in the 2024 season. Dragons coach Shane Flanagan has shared his insights on how these new regulations will not only benefit clubs but also alleviate concerns regarding players potentially missing out on game time due to the larger benches.
Recently, the NRL revealed a series of significant amendments for the forthcoming season. Notably, they have postponed the implementation of a much-debated kick-off modification that faced considerable criticism. Under the new rules, teams will now be allowed to have six players on the bench, an increase from the previous limit of four. Additionally, clubs can make up to eight interchanges during matches, although they will still only be able to utilize four reserve players. This expanded selection means that teams can include specialized outside backs and key spine players alongside their forward rotations.
Flanagan expressed his anticipation regarding the various strategies teams might employ with this rule change. "It’s going to be fascinating to see how different clubs adapt to this situation," he noted as his team prepared for their initial trial match on Saturday. "Some teams will likely opt to carry a specialist outside back, and others may choose to include a promising young player whom they can give valuable experience towards the end of matches.
"Most teams might settle for four forwards, and if the game demands it, they could simply field those four without needing a utility player. The tactical aspect of this is going to be intriguing. It will certainly spark debates in the media about the decisions clubs make, whether they were wise choices or otherwise."
For coaches, this broadened bench is a welcome relief, as it alleviates the dilemma of having to decide between fielding four forwards or including an outside back to prepare for unforeseen injuries. In the past, teams often found themselves carrying an outside back for no apparent reason, but when they chose not to, they encountered significant setbacks. Flanagan recalled a challenging moment when center Moses Suli suffered a severe injury right from the starting kick-off in 2024, leading to a staggering loss where his team conceded 60 points to the Roosters.
"There’s also a crucial health aspect for the players because we won’t have to play them out of position anymore. We’ll be able to have a specialist on the bench, unlike the previous couple of years when we lost key players like centres and wingers early in the games," he explained.
Flanagan reminisced about the Anzac Day game two years ago when Suli was knocked out immediately, forcing them to shift playmaker Kyle Flanagan into the center position along with Tom Eisenhuth, which was a daunting task without a specialist in that role. "Now, with the new rules, we should be able to keep a specialist ready on the bench, which I find very encouraging."
However, Flanagan acknowledged that ensuring all players receive adequate game time remains a challenge, particularly if they don’t make it onto the field in first-grade matches. Fortunately for the Dragons, their NSW Cup team plays before the NRL matches, allowing some players to gain vital experience in reserve grade. Not all teams will enjoy such advantages throughout the season, but Flanagan plans to ensure that those who don’t get on the field in the main event still get half a game in reserve grade to remain fit and ready for potential NRL action.
As he prepares for the opening game against the Bulldogs in Las Vegas, Flanagan intends to treat the week leading up to it like a grand final preparation, ensuring his players are primed for all the festivities surrounding the match. Before diving into that, however, he must evaluate his squad's composition for 2026. Speedster Tyrell Sloan will have the opportunity to showcase his skills as the fullback on Saturday night, facing competition from new recruits David Fale and Setu Tu for a wing position.
Sloan has impressed since returning from the Christmas break, and he aims to make a strong impression following a mixed performance in the 2025 season. "His last month has been remarkable," Flanagan praised. "While I wouldn't say he started pre-season slowly, he has certainly stepped up his game alongside the rest of the group. The past month has seen him train exceptionally well.
"He’s eager to head to Vegas and to prove himself worthy of a spot on the team, which is encouraging for us. If he plays well, our team will undoubtedly be stronger because his unique speed and anticipation are irreplaceable. While there are areas he still needs to improve, he has been dedicated to working on those aspects and has shown great progress in recent weeks."
