NRLW tests modified ball in Cronulla Sharks and St George Illawarra Dragons match

The NRLW will trial a smaller, lighter ball during the final round of the season on Saturday at Allianz Stadium. The Cronulla Sharks NRLW and the St George Illawarra Dragons NRLW will use the modified ball while competing to avoid finishing last. This version of the ball is 2 centimetres shorter and weighs 20-30 grams less than the standard size 5 ball currently used in the competition. The experiment aims to gather data to determine if the smaller ball could improve ball control, kicking, and passing. The test follows ongoing discussions regarding the performance challenges presented by the standard ball, particularly as players experience fatigue late in matches. The result of the match will finalize the wooden spoon recipient for the NRLW season.

• 5:54 AMZero Tackle NRL — NRLW set to trial major change in wooden spoon match