LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

Atkins ready to cap lengthy journey to NRL's biggest stage

Grant Atkins is set to utilize his 27 years of experience as he prepares to referee his inaugural NRL grand final.

He has been appointed to oversee Sunday's championship clash between the Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos at Accor Stadium. Chris Sutton and David Munro will assist him as touch judges, while Ashley Klein will operate from the Bunker.

In the NRLW grand final, Belinda Sharpe will take on the refereeing duties for the match between the Roosters and Broncos, accompanied by Ethan Klein and Rochelle Tamarua as touch judges, with Chris Butler in the Bunker.

Atkins expressed that this appointment represents the pinnacle of nearly three decades of dedication, and he is eager to preside over a competitive and high-quality game.

The day's events will kick off with the Warriors facing Burleigh in the NRL State Championship. Jarrod Cole will serve as the referee for this match, with Kieren Irons and Nick Pelgrave as the touch judges. Liam Kennedy will oversee Bunker reviews.

Following this, Sharpe will return for her fourth NRLW grand final in the day's second match.