Super League is set to adopt the captain's challenge rule from the NRL for the 2025 season, according to sources. The rule, which allows teams to contest referee decisions they believe are incorrect, is expected to be formally approved at a laws committee meeting on Tuesday.
The introduction of the captain's challenge has been a long time coming. Officials had hoped to implement it last season once all Super League games were broadcast, but logistical challenges forced a delay. A solution has now been found, enabling its introduction next year.
Under the new rule, only the captain or a nominated player can challenge decisions such as knock-ons on dropouts. Each team will be allowed one unsuccessful challenge per game. This mirrors the system used in the NRL since 2020.
Meanwhile, radical changes to tackle height laws have been put on hold. The decision follows encouraging evidence from the most recent campaign, with officials opting to gather more data on head contacts before making any major alterations.
Further changes, including amendments to video referee protocols, are not expected in 2025. Calls to remove the on-field decision before a referral to the video referee have been growing, but such a change will not be implemented next season.
