NRL introduces a new finals format after 18 years, adding Sunday afternoon games.
The NRL is set to implement a new finals format for the first time in 18 years, according to chief executive Andrew Abdo. He clarified that this change is not a rash decision but a plan that has been in development for two years. The preliminary final schedule remains undecided, especially in light of a possible matchup with the AFL grand final in Melbourne.
This shift will introduce a Sunday afternoon game in the second week of finals, a rarity since the Cowboys defeated the Warriors in 2007. Previously, day games had also seen the Wests Tigers triumph over the Broncos in 2005.
Although nighttime matches generally appeal to broadcasters, both Fox League and Channel 9 have supported the new earlier kick-off time. This adjustment could result in the loser of the upcoming Raiders-Broncos game facing either the Sharks or the Roosters.