Plans to shift the annual All Stars game to coincide with Grand Final weekend are facing significant challenges.
Concerns have been raised that this move would conflict with the highly revered Koori Knockout tournament.
According to The Daily Telegraph, acting NRL chief Peter V'landys informed club officials during a phone call that the league is contemplating a change from the traditional pre-season schedule.
One idea proposed was to have the All Stars match kick off a thrilling finals weekend, paving the way for the NRL and NRLW grand finals on Sunday.
However, this proposal seems to be losing traction, as insiders indicate that the scheduling adjustment may not proceed due to concerns about clashing with the Koori Knockout, which is slated for Raymond Terrace from October 2-5 this year.
Conversations regarding the fixture's potential shift have intensified this week, aligning with the celebrations of Indigenous Round.
Traditionally viewed as a pre-season opener, there are increasing worries that the essence of the All Stars concept is diminishing.
This year's matchup in Waikato concluded in a 16-all stalemate, with no golden point applied to resolve the tie.
Relocating the fixture to the end of the season would provide Indigenous and Maori players, who may miss out on finals, a valuable opportunity to showcase their talents for international representation.
Both Parramatta winger Josh Addo-Carr and former Blues centre Timana Tahu have advocated for this change, with Tahu recently discussing the matter with key NRL officials.