Origin in Perth more than a dream
Perth could host a rugby league Test, the National Rugby League All-Stars match or even a State of Origin clash as the game gathers pace in WA.
And if the growth continues, the WA Rugby League would be ideally placed for a side in an expanded NRL competition, according to the NRL's director of league integration and game development Andrew Hill.
WA had a 19.3 per cent participation growth last season and is now the third-biggest league State outside NSW and Queens- land, even pushing ahead of Victoria which boasts Melbourne Storm.
Hill, who was in Perth this week for discussions with the WARL, State Government, clubs and sponsors, said it was crucial for the NRL to grow its national footprint.
A Western Reds player in the mid-1990s, he is optimistic about staging big games in Perth.
"A Test in Perth is viable and something we've discussed. There's certainly enough interest for us to be looking at a Test match," Hill said.
"We are looking for somewhere for the All-Stars game. State of Origin? Nothing is out of the question.
"Strategically we need to place games where it helps grow the game. WA is vital in growing the game nationally."
Two NRL games will be played at nib Stadium this year. Canterbury clash with the Storm in March and South Sydney tackle the Warriors in June.
Expansion is expected to be on the NRL Commission agenda at the end of this season, but it could take another four years when the current broadcasting deal runs out.
However, Hill said WA could present a telling bid.
"WA is a growing market and if they can demonstrate continued growth year after year they will put a very strong case for more rugby league," he said.
"Everything that has happened in the last two years, everything that happens over the next two years, will position WA very well."
·Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan is set to appeal against the sanction handed down to him by the NRL following the ASADA scandal, says Sharks captain Paul Gallen.
Flanagan was hit with a 12-month ban from rugby league last month after the game's governing body completed its review into governance issues at Cronulla in 2010 and 2011.
