If you’re after an excuse to head West this year, look no further.
A Perth NRL double-header has been announced, to be played at Optus Stadium. It’s sure to help quench the thirst of League fans in WA crying out for an NRL team. So here’s a chance for the locals to make their voices heard, plus interstate fans to embrace a Perth NRL mission for the weekend.
Set for Saturday August 5, it’s also two games for the price of one; a single ticket buys both Optus Stadium games, set to be played back-to-back. It’s a bit of a Magic Round vibe.
The Newcastle Knights and brand new outfit the Dolphins will kick off the Perth party, before the South Sydney Rabbitohs take on the Cronulla Sharks in a battle between two genuine contenders.
Here’s the critical detail so fans can start planning.
Perth NRL double-header games
SATURDAY AUGUST 5, 2023
Perth NRL Game 1: Knights v Dolphins, 5:30pm AEST, Optus Stadium
Perth NRL Game 2: Rabbitohs v Sharks, 7:30pm AEST, Optus Stadium
The Dolphins claimed a crucial Round 3 win over Newcastle, which helped set up a blockbuster maiden Brisbane derby featuring two unbeaten teams. So the Knights will be out to square the ledger, having picked up some wins since then.
The Sharks, meanwhile, will feel like there’s unfinished business with this Rabbitohs team. Cronulla was literally moments away from booking a finals bye and home Preliminary Final, before being pipped at the post by North Queensland. The next week, the Sharks were overpowered by the Bunnies, ending their post-season campaign in straight sets.
Perth NRL double-header tickets
Tickets are on sale later this week, with more information available here.
Existing club members and Optus Stadium members will be able to buy tickets from 10:00am AEST on Wednesday April 19, before general public tickets go on sale on Friday April 21 via the Ticketmaster website.
More on the Perth NRL double-header announcement
“Western Australia has proved to be popular place for the National Rugby League,” Deputy Premier and Tourism Minister Roger Cook said in a statement on Monday.
“Last year’s 2022 State of Origin saw nearly 7,000 out-of-state visitors travel to WA for the match and spend more than $13.3 million in the WA economy.
“So we’re excited to welcome rugby league back to our State once again. It’s going to huge day at the stadium but we know visiting fans will also take the opportunity to explore Perth and parts of WA.
“Bringing major sporting, cultural and arts events to the State are all part of the McGowan Government and Tourism WA’s strategy to drive tourism to Western Australia for the economic benefit of Western Australians.”
Western Australian Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman threw his support behind the initiative as well, for both locals and tourists alike.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for locals and tourists alike to get out and take in some incredible action at Optus Stadium,” said Templeman.
“We know there are a huge number of local fans of NRL and we would urge every one of them to turn out in support of the newest team to the competition, the Dolphins.
“Hosting this NRL double header gives young up and coming Perth players the opportunity to see their sporting idols live.”
The Dolphins v Knights game kicks off at 3:30pm, before the Rabbitohs and the Sharks take to the field at 5:35pm.
