LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a surprising turn of events, Chris Butler has been removed from his role in the NRL grand final despite officiating six of the eight finals held thus far from the bunker. Grant Atkins, on the other hand, will officiate his first grand final match.
Initially, it seemed likely that Ashley Klein would referee on-field, supported by Butler in the bunker, as had been the practice during previous matches over the last two weekends and throughout this year's State of Origin series.
However, the NRL has confirmed that Atkins will take on-field responsibilities for the championship clash between the Brisbane Broncos and Melbourne Storm, while Klein will now serve in the bunker.
Butler's assignment in the bunker for the majority of finals is part of the NRL's strategy to streamline the number of officials overseeing video replays. Recent questionable calls in the finals may have influenced the decision to substitute Butler, while Klein's demotion may stem from an underwhelming performance in the preliminary final between the Melbourne Storm and Cronulla Sharks.
Atkins will be assisted by Chris Sutton and Dave Munro on the sidelines during the grand final.
In earlier matchups, the women's grand final will be overseen by Belinda Sharpe, with Chris Butler serving in the bunker for that contest. The State Championship game featuring the New Zealand Warriors and Burleigh Bears will be officiated by this year's NRL newcomer, Jarrod Cole, while Liam Kennedy will handle the bunker duties.