NRL brings back double header
A clash of schedules has forced the NRL to give the double header a rebirth with two games to be played back-to-back at ANZ Stadium in late August.
Wests Tigers will host Manly in the opening contest at 5.30pm (AEST) on Saturday, August 23, with that game to be followed by Parramatta-Bulldogs match at 7.30pm.
While keen to gauge fan reaction to the code's first double header since round one 2004 when the Tigers took on Cronulla and Bulldogs met the Eels to open the season, the NRL admitted its had was forced due to fact there were three games scheduled to be played at the Olympic venue in round 24.
South Sydney will host Canberra at the same venue the following day.
Adding to the unique set of circumstances, neither game could be played on the Friday night due to the fact the Tigers and the Eels meet on the Monday night in the preceding round.
Costs will remain the same as they would for any regular season game at ANZ Stadium, with the roll-up on the night set to be determined by whether the Tigers, Eels, and Bulldogs can remain in the hunt for the finals heading into round 24.
"As we looked through some scheduling challenges around that weekend, the double header presented itself as an attractive option for all parties," NRL chief operating officer Graham Annesley said.
"It's a great result for rugby league fans as it means that a ticket for either match will allow them to see both games for the price of one."
Keen to ensure the night is a success, the Tigers have also announced that all members will receive a bonus double pass to the double header.
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