LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The NRL has responded to Brisbane Broncos legend Corey Parker's criticisms regarding the finals schedule, deeming it "diabolical," through CEO Andrew Abdo.
The 2025 NRL finals have introduced an unconventional scheduling approach, departing from traditional game timings for the first time in years.
This change was initiated after the Canberra Raiders, who were the minor premiers, sought a Sunday afternoon game in the opening week. The NRL initially planned to host semi-finals over the weekend, with matches set for Saturday and Sunday of Week 2.
Despite this plan, the Raiders, following a lengthy 94-minute match against the Broncos, find themselves scheduled for the earlier semi-final just six days later against the Cronulla Sharks at home.
Meanwhile, the Canterbury Bulldogs will host their semi-final on Saturday evening against the Penrith Panthers.
The scheduling adjustment appears to aim for the traditional Friday and Saturday time slots for the preliminary finals, ensuring the Melbourne Storm's match does not coincide with the AFL Grand Final, with the Storm set to play the Raiders or Sharks on Friday evening.
However, rather than having the Broncos face either the Bulldogs or Panthers on Saturday, their game has been moved to Sunday.