The NRL's strict anti-drug policy will be beefed up even further after it reached an agreement with the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) to widen testing.
Following talks between the NRL, the players' association (RLPA) and ASADA, the bodies have agreed to begin testing for Human Growth Hormone (hGH), Erythropoietin (EPO) and Continuous Erythropoietin Receptor Activator (CERA) on top of its existing program.
The NRL and ASADA have also endorsed the eight-year storage of blood and urine samples that the Authority may wish to retain for the purposes of future investigation.
"NRL players have always been available for any test that ASADA wishes to carry out under the WADA (World Anti-Doping Authority) code," NRL CEO David Gallop said on Thursday.
"While it is always up to ASADA to determine its testing program, the NRL and RLPA's additional support through this agreement makes it clear that players will undergo blood tests in 2010."
"In ASADA, Australia has one of the most respected anti-doping authorities in the world and, in addition to its efforts, we invest substantially in further tests each year."
"Our focus has always been on ensuring that those tests produce the most effective deterrent and ASADA has been a strong supporter of our existing programs."
"By working with ASADA in what is a specialised area of testing, we are ensuring that rugby league's existing program is maintained while also ensuring the game benefits from the latest advances in testing technology."
"It is an area in which we have worked to make informed decisions on behalf of the sport and with the input of the players who have been supportive of a strong anti-doping policy."
ASADA's Richard Ings said: "The NRL has consistently shown its commitment to anti-doping by working closely with ASADA to develop and fund a best practice anti-doping program."
"This additional NRL funding for expanded testing of hGH, EPO and CERA is a landmark achievement for the sport as it signals to players considering doping that the NRL is committed to protecting rugby league in this area."