The new interchange rules are to stop players getting away with being fat whoppers and just playing for short spells imo. Less interchanges mean that more emphasis will be on clubs to make sure their players are in peak condition which should lead to a better quality game and better players.

Ive no idea what the thinking is behind the drop kick conversion though

None of the rule changes upset me really, but I'm disappointed the 'on report' option wasn't changed. It's become a kop out for many referees and linesmen which often allows an offending player or team to continue the game unpunished. With video technology there's simply no excuse for passing anything but the most complicated incidents to the beak. Personally I'd have done away with it completely and have our officials earning their wage

Feel for Salford. Two fewer interchanges and they've got Feka Palea'asina on the books.

The rule change for Super League Academy (Under-20) and Super League Cup (Under-1icon_cool.gif competitions seems to have gone unnoticed but I think it's an indication of where we're heading:
'Each team may nominate a maximum of four replacements before the start of the game. Their names along with those of the players must be given to the referee before the start of the game. A maximum of 8 interchanges will be allowed from the 17 named players.'

Having a fitter more mobile pack will become even more important with less subs. Hopefully the fitness standards over the last 2 seasons continue or even get surpassed in 2012.