Six venues to host games as updated NRL draw is released
The NRL has released the full revised fixture for the remainder of the 2020 season, with six stadiums to host all games initially – behind closed doors.
The season came to an abrupt halt following round two due to coronavirus, and the season will resume on May 28. Rounds three and four matches were announced last week, but the league has now released all remaining 18 rounds of the revised draw.
As announced earlier this week, all 16 clubs will play their home games across six stadiums – Bankwest Stadium (Eels, Bulldogs, Rabbitohs, Sharks, Roosters), Campbelltown Stadium (Dragons, Tigers, Panthers, Raiders), Suncorp Stadium (Broncos, Titans), Central Coast Stadium (Knights, Warriors, Sea Eagles), AAMI Park (Melbourne Storm) and the new Queensland Country Bank Stadium (North Queensland Cowboys).
VIEW THE REVISED 2020 NRL DRAW >
That will remain the case for phase 1 of the revised draw. Venues for round 10 onwards are to be determined. Bankwest Stadium will host the most matches in the next eight rounds, with 13 games, while Campbelltown will play host to 10.
Advising that the venues will provide the safest possible environment for players and staff, in accordance with the NRL’s biosecurity protocols, NRL acting Chief Executive, Andrew Abdo advised “the competition will begin with a consolidated approach to venues.
“Each venue requires customised infrastructure to meet our strict biosecurity requirements.
“We’ve adopted a phased approach for venues should restrictions be eased in the future.
“We’ve chosen three consolidated venues for clubs in and around Sydney to ensure there are no double headers at venues and in different parts of the region to meet the geographical challenges we face.”
The 2020 NRL Grand Final will be played on October 25. Originally scheduled for the Sydney Cricket Ground (due to the redevelopment of ANZ Stadium and the Sydney Football Stadium), the venue is currently listed as TBC due to a potential clash with the T20 World Cup at the SCG.
The State of Origin series will be played following the season-decider, with matches on November 4, 11 and 18. Venues for the three games are TBC at this stage. Adelaide Oval was originally scheduled to host one fo the games.
The AFL is expected to release their fixture soon, with its season to resume on July 11.
