NRL

The international ambitions of NRL boss Peter V’landys are firmly on the public record with Miami, London, Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong and Singapore all mentioned as potential NRL host cities in coming seasons.

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Now two clubs that could make the game’s ‘Global Round’ dream a reality have emerged with reports the Sydney Roosters and Brisbane Broncos are keen to clash in Tokyo to begin the 2028 NRL season.

According to the Daily Telegraph the Roosters have told the NRL they are interested in playing for premiership points in Japan, with the Broncos providing a lucrative and high-profile opponent worthy of the historic occasion.

Asked about the opportunity Brisbane CEO Donaghy indicated the club was open to the idea ‘in principle.’

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“As a game we understand the value and we’ve seen that at the moment with the NFL bringing their game to Australia … the significance of growing your audience and not standing still,” Donaghy said.

“In principle, we understand it and agree with it (Global Round).

“If that’s what the game and what Peter (V’landys) wants to do, I look forward to hearing more about it and understanding the full detail around what’s actually involved.”

Bolstered by the NRL’s bumper new $5.3 billion broadcast deal a buoyant V’landys declared last month that ‘Global Round will definitely be going ahead in 2028, no doubt about that.’

Now it seems we know the first two combatants, two of the games’ highest profile and most successful clubs.

For those old enough to remember, the Roosters have actually played in Japan before with the 1996 Tricolours side coached by Arthur Beetson playing an exhibition game against freshly-crowned ARL premiers Manly at the height of the Super League war.

Called the ‘Revolution Cup’ the match took place at Komazawa Stadium in Tokyo following the 1996 season with the Roosters winning 34-30.

NRL

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