Usually played at the start of February, the NRL Nines was my favourite weekend of the summer, as it was the most exciting sporting event of the off-season.
The competition began in 2014, when the NRL signed a five-year deal with Auckland’s Eden Park to host the fixtures.
The deal expired in 2018 and in 2020 the NRL signed a deal for Perth to host the weekend, but the details of the contract were not made public – although we have a fairly good idea as the tournament will not be taking place at all in 2021.
The games were played over a two-day period, under rules that are not established in the regular competition, such as nine-minute halves and a maximum of nine players on the field. This made for fun match, as teams did not have to deal with many players, and could swing the ball around.
Another great rule saw tries scored in the bonus-zone – between the posts – worth five points, which had a real impact, especially towards the end of games. Also, after a try was scored, the team who conceded the points received the kick-off, making it more of an even scoring game.
There were five tackles per set, rather than six, and there were pools of four teams that played each other once, with the top two proceeding to the finals.
I loved these rules, as they brought excitement and entertainment to our screens.
The Nines was not on free-to-air TV, which was a let down, as it is such a great tournament but not by all rugby league lovers could watch it. If an FTA channel was able to get a contract done with the NRL, the competition would explode.
One of the highlights of this pre-season tournament was that it was usually won by young teams that do not generally do well in the regular season, such as the North Queensland Cowboys taking out the title in 2020 – the same team that finished third last in the actualy season.
I love seeing the young, inexperienced teams do well in the Nines as you can see signs of what’s to come.
Despite its absence in 2021, we should definitely keep the competition going in the coming years – and preferably on FTA, because it would make the competition grow.
Dwanye
Roar Rookie
Agreed Duncan. I think also that rep Brisbane team they had mid 80’s also helped the Brisbane teams management work together a bit. I think a 2nd Brisbane may work be stronger being that sort of thing rather then a current team given the entire thing. They could do it to try out new teams in other new areas. Or even, heaven forbid merge the Sydney teams (north, south, easts) for that comp.
Christo
Roar Guru
Correct
Christo
Roar Guru
You are 100% right. I just don't get it, it would not be much money to buy the nines
Walter Black
Guest
Yeah, I don't get why events like this aren't screened on FTA. I mean, its not like it is competing with very much, MASH or Star Trek repeats on their 56th iteration at worst. Surely some enterprising TV exec would be willing to cough up a $50 note for the rights or maybe $100 if we throw in the WCC. That has got to be a decent proposition surely ?
Walter Black
Guest
The whole point of NRL Nines is that it is a party weekend away from home with novelty rugby benefits. It isn't intended to be serious but it is intended to be played somewhere different where fans can have a good time. As Covid making life difficult, the author is talking about 2022 when hopefully, covid will be a distant memory.
Chris.P.Bacon
Guest
Christo, last year was my first opportunity watching the 9's as I've always had other commitments and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I didn't even realise it wasn't on this year until I read your article - dammit! ;) Should it make a return I think FTA would be the way to go - if possible/feasible.
Duncan Smith
Roar Guru
It would be nice to see rep teams from non-NRL players representing Qld, NSW country, and NZ, up against NRL club teams. Although the professional players would have a big advantage.
Tony
Roar Guru
And who can forget TV Ted Ellery!
Dwanye
Roar Rookie
Hi Duncan. I loved that comp. Regional teams, made up Brisbane team from Brisbane comp, state teams, state comp teams, png and Northern Territory team, lol. I remember one year they had like 30 plus teams. It would be tougher now days, the difference between first grade (full time player) against a non first grade full time player.
Christo
Roar Guru
Yeah the cant wait to see the hammer at it again
Nat
Roar Rookie
They are a bit of fun and there’s a few players who got their NRL start due to strong 9s showing. As long as they avoid injury who doesn’t want to see Hoy, Ramsey or Hammer lighting it up as they did last year.
Christo
Roar Guru
Yeah
Joe
Roar Rookie
Love the 9s as well. Last year with the rule changes produced the best viewing so far. Chance for clubs to showcase their youngsters. The Hammer was revealed last year. Hope its back in 2022.
Duncan Smith
Roar Guru
Bring back the Amco cup!
Max power
Guest
No one will miss them Plus playing them in a foreign country like WA is difficult in Covid . They shut borders when someone gets a sore throat