The NRL’s dream of hosting the 2024 season opener in Las Vegas is taking shape with the first team locked in to make the trip to Sin City.
With 10 of the 17 clubs expressing formal interest in the venture, the Brisbane Broncos have been confirmed as the first of four teams to feature in the season opener.
The Sydney Roosters, Melbourne Storm, Manly Sea Eagles and the South Sydney Rabbitohs are among the favourites to take up the vacant three spots.
The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio said the clubs who have not expressed interest in this iteration of the Las Vegas showcase are keeping a close eye on how the event performs.
“There are a couple of teams that want to, dare I say it, suck it and see,” Riccio said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“They want to see if it’s a success and whether or not they want to put their club through that.
“It’s at the start of the season so there may be some old school coaches who don’t want the disruption of a week in Vegas (and) have it impact the start of the year.
“This is a five-year deal so your team will definitely get a crack if they want to.
“I think Manly will also be there based on Hugh Jackman (and) I’m hearing that Melbourne could be out.”
Riccio further revealed the proposed fixture of the Las Vegas season opener and how the teams will be affected in the opening rounds of the 2024 season.
“The games will kick off at 6pm over there and 8:30pm which is 1 o’clock and 3.30pm back here in Australia,” Riccio added.
“The participating teams will effectively play in Round 1 on March 2 and they won’t play the following week.
“Their next match will be (on the week) of March 14.
“It will be a nine day turnaround to get back from Vegas.”