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What we know: When the AFL and NRL will return
When will the AFL and NRL return?
While they will inevitably return without crowds to begin, we have all been hanging for both the AFL and NRL to return as soon as possible.
So, here is what we know so far about when the two codes are set to resume.
AFL
Thursday 11 June is the key date announced by the AFL. This date will mark the return to the field, albeit without crowds, for the AFL.
Teams will return to non-contact training from Monday 18 May, before a week later on Monday 25 May contact training will resume with two sessions per week.
Each player will be tested at least 24 hours prior to each session.
AFL Fixtures
For at least the first four weeks of the season, West Coast, Fremantle, Adelaide, and Port Adelaide will be placed into hubs on the Gold Coast.
This means that for these four weeks, the fixtures for these four clubs will be a rotation of matches among themselves, as well as the Gold Coast Suns and Brisbane Lions.
Prior to the Monday 25 May return date for contact training, we can expect an announcement on the opening four weeks of fixtures to be locked in.
Footy is going to look different for a while
NRL
The NRL is set to return to matches slightly earlier, with Thursday 28 May marked as their key date.
All 16 sides have already resumed training at club bases and various hubs, working towards a return in less than two weeks.
The New Zealand Warriors have been forced to set up camp in Tamworth NSW, while Melbourne Storm initially used Albury as their own hub before returning home after restrictions eased.
NRL Fixtures
With the first two rounds already locked in, the NRL have released the returning fixture for Rounds 3 and 4.
The opening Thursday night clash will see the Broncos face Parramatta, before the Cowboys and Titans do battle the following night (Friday 29 May).
The Broncos and Eels will open the return of the NRL 2020 season
The Broncos will then again open the Round 4 fixture (Thursday 4 June) facing the Roosters, before Panthers v Warriors in Friday night footy (Friday 5 June).
For a full fixture list, head here.
So, it appears that we will finally get a taste of live Aussie sport on our screens very soon.
Welcome news to every AFL and NRL fan across the country, as we sit and wait for the Thursday 28 May and Thursday 11 June start dates to arrive.
