As few as five players might be eligible for a testimonial match next season - and the financial windfall that comes with it - under the NRL's stringent rules.
There had been fears a pre-season testimonial tribute match for Johnathan Thurston and Cameron Smith - slated for February 21 at Suncorp Stadium - could open a salary-cap loophole.
As much as $1.5 million in gate takings, ticket sales and sponsorship could be made for the players out of the fixture, in what would otherwise be a regular pre-season trial between Melbourne and North Queensland.
However, the NRL has confirmed a number of tight restrictions on qualifications for such a tribute match, after the league had been approached earlier this year.
The nominees must have played at least 250 NRL games and spent a minimum 10 years at their club. They have to also have played State of Origin or Tests, and have near-unblemished records both on and off the field.
Crucially, they must also have a registered contract in the season of the match, to ensure their salary is registered at market value - and in turn, stopping game's proceeds supplementing their wages.
Players also need to nominate a charity of choice, where a portion of the money will go.
"The suggestion that is a salary-cap rort or a way of paying players extra is simply not right," a NRL spokesman told AAP.
"There is no way we would allow the testimonial to replace salary-cap money.
"The criteria is incredibly tight on this. There are very few players in the game who will qualify to have a testimonial."
Only Thurston, Smith, Melbourne's Billy Slater, Brisbane's Sam Thaiday and the Warriors' Simon Mannering could meet the guidelines with absolute certainty if all played into next season.
Cooper Cronk has passed the 250-game milestone and meets the criteria, however he will not have a contract registered for 2018 with Melbourne.
Paul Gallen also fits the statistical requirements, but his guilty plea to ASADA in 2014 could be considered a serious enough off-field blemish to count against him.
The NRL's clarification will quell fears over the match, after Sharks coach Shane Flanagan had earlier expressed concerns it would open a can of worms in the game in terms of who was eligible.
"I'm not quite sure how it will work," Flanagan said before the clarification.
"One thing I do know is it's going to open a can of worms.
"Those two players, whatever they can get out of the game, though, they thoroughly deserve."
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