LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL is facing renewed scrutiny regarding the fixture schedule, particularly in light of the Melbourne Storm's upcoming matches.
Currently positioned third on the ladder, just four points behind the Canberra Raiders, the Storm's path to a minor premiership has raised eyebrows following their recent victory against the Roosters.
Coach Craig Bellamy is preparing for challenging games against the Bulldogs and Panthers; however, their schedule features an advantageous buffer between matches as they approach the finals.
SEN Radio host Matt White expressed concerns over the last six rounds of the regular season, highlighting that the Storm will play only on Thursday or Friday nights.
This schedule allows for six or seven-day turnarounds, promoting consistent preparation for the team.
White underscored the need for changes to the draw format by the 2026 season, as the current arrangement-especially during the State of Origin series-appears to negatively impact certain teams more than others.
"Can someone explain the draw? The answer is no.
I can't," he remarked.
He noted that the Storm's final matches lack weekend games, which raises questions about the logic behind their scheduling.
White stated, "In the last weeks of the premiership...the Melbourne Storm will have played the Roosters and the Broncos twice within seven rounds.
It just makes absolutely no sense at all...it certainly has got to be looked at.
The confusing inconsistency is crazy."
With the Storm facing significant teams ahead, broadcasters seem to prioritize marquee matchups in prime time slots to maximize viewership.
Notably, NRL great Greg Alexander also acknowledged the ongoing confusion surrounding the draw.
"The questions about the draw, you may as well talk to a brick wall.
I have no idea...it's all over the shop," he commented during a listener segment on SEN Radio.
As discussions continue, the NRL's scheduling practice remains a contentious issue among fans and commentators.