LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Sydney Roosters enforcer Lindsay Collins has voiced concerns about the Allianz Stadium playing surface, stating it is "not crash hot." Nonetheless, Venues NSW remains optimistic that predicted sunshine will improve the condition of the field ahead of this weekend's scheduled NRL matches and an NRLW game.
Throughout the month, Sydney has experienced nearly 200mm of rain, with heavy downpours leading to the cancellation of the Randwick race meet and creating slippery conditions for City2Surf participants.
Since its opening in 2022, the $828 million Allianz Stadium has been consistently troubled by wet weather. Issues with surface water and inadequate drainage have resulted in slick surfaces and pools forming during several events over the past few years.
The playing surface has faced criticism on multiple occasions, including a 2024 match between the Roosters and Eels that was played in near-flood conditions. Other events, such as the women's Origin game and a Super Rugby fixture, were also marred by large puddles.
Clint Gutherson, a player for the Eels last year, labeled the field as "one of the worst fields" he had experienced after a match, while Roosters captain James Tedesco highlighted the hazardous conditions, noting how slippery the surface remained even without rain.
This week, Sydney's weather is expected to improve, with only minor showers anticipated, which should not significantly impact the upcoming men's matches featuring the Roosters, Bulldogs, Rabbitohs, Eels, Wests Tigers, and Sea Eagles, along with the NRLW game between the Wests Tigers and Dragons.
To address these ongoing issues, heat lamps were deployed on Monday at one of the problem areas of the ground, and staff remain hopeful that the surface will be ready for the upcoming games.