The prospect of a return to a daytime NRL grand final this season remains up in the air with club CEOs evenly split on the issue.

Eight clubs had voted for a day match while eight voted to retain the night fixture at the annual conference of NRL chief executives held at the NSW Hunter Valley.

The NRL will now commission a full review of grand final options, including its commercial impact, for the NRL board meeting in February.

"It's an issue which has provoked strong opinion," NRL CEO David Gallop said, referring to the strong public push to move away from the twilight decider.

Queensland clubs in particular lobbied strongly for a daytime return.

"We certainly respect what many fans seem to be saying but while it is an emotional issue for many people it is also important that we look at all the ramifications of any change," added Gallop.

"We have a bit of time between now and the start of the season to make an informed decision and that is exactly what we will be doing."

In other matters, proposals for a reduction of interchanges from 12 to 10, and another to allow ball stripping while a player is attempting to ground the ball for a try, will be the subject to approval by the Rugby League International Federation.

Clubs also endorsed the retention of the existing golden point and sin-bin provisions and the McIntyre finals system, despite a proposal put forward by South Sydney coach Jason Taylor to consider a change to the AFL-style system.

There was support for the code's strong stance against contact with the head or neck, with particular reference to the grapple tackle, as well as a push for a more structured set of protocols around overseas nations selecting NRL players for international events.

A committee was also formed to address growing concerns over the future of Leagues club funding, following the introduction of smoking legislation and ongoing tax increases.

"There's no doubt that this is a major issue for us and it is important that people understand the effect that it is having," said Gallop.

Meanwhile, the NRL released matchday details for the first five rounds of the 2008 season, as well as listing all venues for the year ahead.

Traditional rivals the Rabbitohs and the Roosters will open the season at Telstra Stadium on March 14 with the Titans and the Cowboys playing the first ever match at the new Skilled Park one hour later.

The Wests Tigers and the Dragons clash at the SCG in the Sunday feature match, with premiers Melbourne launching the second year of Monday night football against the Warriors.

The SCG will host two matches in 2008 including the heritage round game (round 6 April 18-21) between Wests and the Rabbitohs.

Gosford's Bluetongue Stadium will host four matches next year.

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