There is still a chance the 2021 NRL grand final could be played outside Sydney, with the NSW Government reluctant to hand over $10 million to host the match at the SCG.
The Herald last week revealed the NRL wants as much as $10 million to cover the cost of lost gate takings if the final match of the NRL season is held at the SCG for the second year running.
The NRL and NSW Government have agreed to play the 2020 grand final at the famous ground as a one off, but were hopeful ANZ Stadium would be ready for use in 2021. Delays to the start of work on the former Olympic venue mean that is no longer a possibility.
Glory days: The Roosters celebrate their NRL title at ANZ Stadium last year.Credit:AAP
The SCGs capacity is about 45,000 – about 35,000 less than ANZ Stadium – and the NRL does not want to be left out of pocket two years in a row because it has less tickets to sell.
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While the NRL has denied $10 million is the amount they are chasing to cover costs, there is no disputing comments made by NSW Sports Minister John Sidoti when asked whether the State Government was willing to pay such an amount.
Sidoti pointed to the fact that the NRL will be the "greatest beneficiaries" of the redevelopment of Allianz and ANZ stadiums when he spoke to the Herald on Friday, suggesting enough money has already been drawn from the state's coffers.
"Were spending $2 billion on stadiums and rugby league are going to be the greatest beneficiaries of these stadiums," Sidoti said.
"You know that, I know that, the [NRL] know that and everyone [else] knows that.
"If [NRL chief executive] Todd Greenberg or Mr [Peter] Beattie [Australian Rugby League Commission chairman] want my number, they can ring me any time. They know where I am.
"But the reality is, we are going to have 25 grand finals in a row in NSW."
Logical replacement?: Corey Oates crosses in the corner to score a try in Queensland's Origin I win at Suncorp Stadium.Credit:AAP
When pressed on whether he was comfortable with the possibility the grand final could be played outside the Harbour City for the first time, Sidoti was unequivocal.
"[We will have] 25 grand finals in a row in NSW," he said.
The ARLC – which discussed the topic at a meeting on Friday – has tasked Greenberg with handling the negotiations between the game's governing body and the NSW Government.
"In relation to where the grand final in 2021 will be staged, we will continue to work closely with the NSW Government to find a solution which both recognises the significant investment in stadia, but also provides the best options for the game and our fans," Greenberg said.
Beattie was similarly diplomatic.
"We are very respectful of the NSW Government and the investment they have made in stadiums in this city," Beattie said.
"I have been getting plenty of grief in my home state of QueenslandRead More – Source
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