3 minute read

Fewer than 200 spectators in corporate boxes will be allowed into NRL matches on the Central Coast this weekend, with some clubs to welcome members in.

The NRL's grand reopening to spectators will include a limited capacity of just under 200 people in corporate boxes on Thursday night at Central Coast Stadium.

Fans and sponsors will be welcomed back to grounds this weekend in heavily reduced numbers, with entrance limited to one person per four square metres in corporate boxes.

Clubs are still determining how they will decide who will be let in, with South Sydney the first to open a ballot to admit some members for this weekend.

Under the rules, around 180 spectators will be allowed into each of the three games on the Central Coast, beginning with Manly and Brisbane on Thursday night.

The Sea Eagles will split their numbers between long-term members and corporate partners, with around 80 of each to be invited.

A small amount of spots will also be designated for away clubs.

The figure for the two games at Campbelltown this weekend is far smaller, capped at just 120.

All spectators will be confined to the eastern side of the ground, where Wests Tigers will also honour the late Arthur Summons in their clash with Canberra.

The Bankwest Stadium corporates will be a little busier.

It is believed approximately 650 will be allowed to enter their 38 suites and four function rooms, split evenly between the stadium and home club.

The figures are still to be finalised by the league, but they are the numbers clubs and venues are working off.

Most clubs, including Newcastle, Canterbury and Parramatta, are expected to join Manly and Souths in welcoming some fans to home games this weekends.

Given the small capacity at Campbelltown, the Dragons and Tigers will only have sponsors.

Corporates meanwhile will not attend the Warriors' 'home' clash with North Queensland in Gosford, but the club are hoping to organise something for their Australia-based members and sponsors next time.

The loosening of rules around attendance at matches comes as ARL Commission chairman Peter V'landys continues his push for a return to capped crowds by July 1, and potentially opening the doors completely later in the season.