A growing tension has emerged between NRL players and the league's administration regarding the 'set restart' rule. Several players have voiced fears that the rule, which resets the tackle count following certain infringements, could prove decisive in high-stakes finals matches. The players argue that the rule's application during critical moments of a game could unfairly alter the momentum or result of a championship-deciding fixture.

In response to these player concerns, NRL chairman Peter V’landys has taken a firm stance, publicly rejecting the players' claims. V’landys stated that the players are 'not telling the truth' about the impact of the rule. This public disagreement highlights a deeper divide between the league's governing body and the athletes regarding the current officiating standards and the rules governing the game's flow. While the players emphasize the potential for the rule to disrupt the competitive balance of the finals, the administration maintains that the rule is functioning as intended and that player criticism is unfounded.