How to fix NRL scheduling? Fix the State of Origin period

Roar Guru

27th April, 2015

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Wayne

Roar Guru

27th April, 2015

In my first article about the NRL draw, I looked at why conferences were a bad idea. Now I shift my attention to the State of Origin, which commentators often say can make or break a side’s push for finals.

This time around, I am only analysing the 2015 fixture to draw conclusions. I am not proposing a fix, merely pointing out its flaws and discussion points.

Coming from an AFL background where State of Origin is more a side-thought than a main event, the disruption to the season is always an interesting talking point.

First off, there are teams that don’t get any byes before any State of Origin games. They are South Sydney Rabbitohs, Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers.

All three of those teams don’t get a break before the State of Origin, and will get two byes after. South Sydney are likely the worse off out of the trio because they will be without Greg Inglis, although I have to admit I haven’t been watching the Queensland and NSW Origin selections as close as I should be.

Next is the team that gets a bye on either side of State of Origin. That is North Queensland Cowboys, who have two trips to Sydney before Origin, which is less than ideal without Johnathan Thurston.

Lastly are the remaining teams who get both byes before the State of Origin games. The Canberra Raiders and Gold Coast Titans have potentially dream runs where they can capitalise on three home games. But Brisbane may struggle if players don’t back up strongly after Origin.

So what does this analysis show? Well, on its own not much really. But it does give weight to original ideas about the fixturing not being as balanced as it could be. With some teams getting both byes before Origin, and some teams after Origin.

What do you think Roarers? Couple this with selections, where do you see teams going after these six rounds of football.

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