The Mole: Brad Fittler Supports NRL’s Initiative to Eliminate ‘Menace to the Game’ with Fresh Interpretation

Legends of the league have praised the NRL’s decision to put an end to players being rewarded for exaggerating when it comes to penalties by lying down after minimal contact in the defensive line.

The issue of diving has reached absurd levels in recent seasons, with referees routinely disallowing tries when defenders blatantly feign injury, frustrating coaches, fans, and players alike.

However, changes are on the horizon for 2025—at least a reduction in this behaviour—with the NRL directing referees to exercise greater discretion in this contentious area.

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“It’s a brilliant initiative from the NRL, and I particularly appreciate the way it’s been articulated,” remarked the legendary Brad Fittler during a chat with Wide World of Sports.

“They’ve empowered the referees to make calls based on their observations, and I’m sure the referees will value this level of freedom.”

“We must take action to deter players from lying down—it has infiltrated the game to an unacceptable degree and is detrimental to its integrity.

“The use of decoy runners has emerged as the optimal strategy to penetrate a defence, but defenders have learned that feigning injury is an effective countermeasure.”

Raiders coach Ricky Stuart was as forthright as ever in his evaluation of the new interpretation as his side gears up for the Las Vegas season opener.

“You’ve got to compel players to defend,” Stuart stated. “It’s far too simple for them to just lie down and they’re being rewarded for it.

“Let’s hope this will put an end to it.”

Redcliffe CEO Bob Jones expressed skepticism regarding how referees will implement the changes.

“I wish them [the referees] the best of luck—it’s challenging to determine whether players are diving or legitimately hindered, and some are exceptionally skilled at deceiving,” he commented.

“This has been an ongoing issue, and while it’s worsening, it’s encouraging that the NRL is trying to tackle it.

“However, figuring out who is genuinely injured and who isn’t is no easy task. It can significantly impact a team’s performance, so it’s vital they get it right.”

Fittler is also thrilled with the NRL’s initiative to improve the play-the-ball process, introducing a turnover if a player fails to make a genuine attempt to touch the ball with their foot.

“I’m fed up with kids and even seasoned players at coaching clinics asking whether they need to touch the ball with their foot during the play-the-ball,” the former NSW coach lamented.

“It’s turned into a farce. There has to be an effort from the players, and this should help guarantee that.”