The National Rugby League (NRL) has made a significant change to its 2026 season draw by eliminating the much-despised “double-headers.” This adjustment, which was generated using artificial intelligence for the first time, ensures that no two teams will face each other more than once within a period of six weeks. Last season, fans often found themselves confused as their clubs were drawn to play the same opponent multiple times in a short span.
In the 2025 season, teams like the Wests Tigers and Newcastle Knights met twice within a mere four weeks. Similarly, the Brisbane Broncos faced the Melbourne Storm on two occasions during the last month of the season. The new draw aims to improve the competitive balance and enhance the viewing experience for fans.
The 2026 draw will see the shortest turnaround for rematches extended to six weeks, a significant change from the previous season, which featured seven instances of teams playing each other within four weeks and eight double-headers with five-week gaps. Notably, this is the first time since 2008 that such a long interval between rematches has been implemented.
The NRL is set to unveil its complete 2026 draw at 11:00 on March 15, 2024, but has already shared some exciting details about the opening round. Among the highlights is the return of Jonah Pezet to his former club in Melbourne and the debut of Josh Hannay as the new coach of the Gold Coast Titans, who will face his old team, the Cronulla Sharks. Additionally, Jamal Fogarty will host his former Canberra Raiders teammates at 4 Pines Park.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming season, fans can also look forward to a highly anticipated match in round four, where Daly Cherry-Evans, a star signing for the Sydney Roosters, will make his return to Manly. In a notable development, the NRL has confirmed that the All Stars fixture will take place in Hamilton, marking the first such event on New Zealand soil since 2023.
The adjustments made to the 2026 draw reflect the NRL’s commitment to addressing fan concerns and enhancing the overall experience of the league. With the elimination of double-headers, supporters can expect a more structured and engaging season ahead.
