A new "no fault" stand down rule has been added to the NRL Rules. The new rule gives effect to the Policy announced by the Australian Rugby League Commission on 28 February 2019.

The NRL today approved the rule which will see the automatic "no fault" stand down of players charged with serious criminal offences.

The NRL CEO will also be able to use his discretion to stand down players charged with other criminal offences, particularly those involving women and children.

NRL CEO Todd Greenberg said the new rule had been notified to NRL Clubs and three players – Jack de Belin (St George Illawarra Dragons), Dylan Walker (Manly Sea Eagles) and Tyrone May (Penrith Panthers) have been advised that they have been stood down pending the outcome of their court cases.