Draftstars has made some changes to its NRL Daily Fantasy contests for the 2022 season. Starting this week there are new positional allocations and an overall reduction from 9 players to 7 in each lineup. The positions are as follows:

  • x2 OB (Outside Backs)
  • x1 HH (Halves/Hooker)
  • x3 FWD (All Forwards)
  • x1 FLEX (All Positions)

 

 

That’s a move from 6 seperate position groups to 3, which are explained further below.

  • Outside Backs - Formerly split into WFB and CTR, all fullbacks, wingers and centres will now fall under one group.
  • Halves/Hooker - We previously had HLF and HOK, and now all five-eights, halfbacks and hookers will be in this group.
  • Forwards - Previously split into 2RF and FRF, all Front Row, Second Row and Locks are now grouped together.

 

On single game slates the rule that you must have at least one player from each team in your lineup remains, which means the maximum you can have from from one team is now 6 (rather than 8). On multi-game slates the limit per team is now 4 players. The point scoring system is unchanged. There will also no longer be dual position allocations on players.

 

In an NRL game there are 34 players, several of which are almost irrelevant due to limited bench roles. The reduction from 9 spots to 7 in lineups will mean that we won’t get quite as many heavily owned players. The removal of single player positions like HOK and CTR will also help give more flexibility in lineups. Previously there would be one clear option in some positions, and now we should see things more spread out.

 

The addition of a FLEX position is another key change to add flexibility and uniqueness to lineups. Should we go for an extra volatile outside back, doubling up on a controlling half or 80 minute hooker, or jamming in an extra forward who can combine a high work rate with attacking upside? Even with less positions to fill, there will be more decisions to be made around how to structure a lineup, and who to leave out.

 

On single game slates this is a great move to make duplication less likely. On multi-game slates where the impact of late team changes is felt (particularly in Covid times), this will open up a lot more replacement options when using the late swap function.

 

Overall it seems that Draftstars has made a good move to streamline the NRL offering without removing any strategic complexity.

 

The first contest for the season kicks off at 8:05 pm AEDT this Thursday, and looking at the lobby it'll be a $60,000 contest! Don’t miss your chance to try the new format and start adjusting for a long winter of footy!

 

 

Always remember to gamble responsibly. When the fun stops, stop. If gambling is having a negative impact on your life, seek support at Gambling Help Online.  18+ only.