https://www.nrl.com/news/2021/04/06/nrl-confirms-18th-player-rule-for-foul-play-or-three-failed-hias/b
NRL confirms 18th player rule for foul play or three failed HIAs
Author
[URL='https://www.nrl.com/news/author/alicia-newton/']Alicia NewtonNRL.com Reporter
Timestamp
Tue 6 Apr 2021, 09:42 AM
ARL Commission chairman Peter V'landys said the game was listening to its players and coaches after confirming an 18th player would be in use from round five if a team is affected by foul play or three failed HIAs.
NRL coaches will be able to use any registered player from their top 30 squad as an 18th player, the ARL Commission confirmed on Tuesday morning.
An 18th player will be able to take the field when three players fail a head injury assessment or when a player suffers a match ending injury caused by foul play.
Foul play will only be determined if the opposition perpetrator is sin-binned or sent off.
In a change to initial talks surrounding the use of emerging players as a replacement only, the ARL Commission clarified an 18th player can be a registered NRL player who is eligible for selection in that round and part of the 21-man squad.
NRL clubs must identify their 18th player on they team sheets they provide an hour before kick-off.
"Player wellbeing is a priority for the Commission and this additional safety net ensures players continue to be protected," V'landys said.
"Our clubs are outstanding in the way they detect and monitor head injuries and the activation of an 18th player in rare cases of three failed HIAs during a game will ensure continued strict compliance throughout a match.
"We've also approved an 18th player to be activated when a player suffers a match ending injury because of foul play where the perpetrator is sin-binned or sent off.
"Why should a team be disadvantaged by an act of serious foul play?
"This was a strong message from all clubs and fans and the Commission has listened to that feedback.
"We’ve also listened to clubs and players about the criteria of the 18th player used and will allow the club to select any of its registered players which will enable the most effective team combination on game day. I want to thank all Clubs and the RLPA for their feedback."
The use of an 18th man is expected to be monitored by the ARL Commission with further adjustments possible if required.
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