As others have said the problem is the NRL. They keep changing their rules without regard for the sport as a whole. So the only way the RFL can unify the rules is to essentially allow the NRL to write the SL and International rules. Which I wouldn't like at all.

The problem is the lack of a truly independent and authoritative overarching governing body for the sport.

You can't blame the NRL solely for this shambles. The RFL have implemented many a rule in independence from the International rule i.e the free play after a knock on. The blame IMO solely lies with the RLIF for not standing up to the relevant nations.

Which is nothing compared to the plethora of NRL rules that have been changed over the years. I reserve 90% of the blame for the NRL. They are the ones who held back the international game and who continue to do so, and are the reason why the RLIF has no teeth. You can't blame the RLIF, they have no control or authority whatsoever over virtually anything other than handing out a paltry amount of international funding.

That control and authority can only be given up by the RFL and NRL.

Quite pleased the Aussies are clamping down on playing the ball with the foot, it was the defining difference after the great split, should bring back striking for the ball at the PTB too

No way to striking at the play the ball. The play the ball is messy enough as it is.