LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL is facing criticism over the scheduling of the New Zealand Warriors' preliminary final against the Brisbane Broncos, with the Penrith Panthers calling it "unfair." The match is set to take place at Suncorp Stadium at 7:50pm AEST, but this means it will kick off at 9:50pm NZ time.
The Broncos earned the right to play a home preliminary final after finishing in the top-two and winning their qualifying final.
However, fans and the Panthers' CEO believe that hosting finals matches at home should only be allowed in the first two weeks of the playoffs.
After that, they argue that all finals should be played at neutral, major stadiums.
The NRL is being accused of giving the Broncos an advantage by allowing them to play at their home stadium in a crucial match.
The Warriors will have to deal with the late kick-off time, which could have an impact on their performance.
The controversy highlights the ongoing debate about fairness and equity in the NRL.