The NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership (NRLW) is set to make history in 2023 as it expands to become the largest women’s rugby league competition ever. With nine rounds of matches, fans can anticipate an action-packed season that showcases the incredible talent and skill of female athletes.
Adding to the excitement, the NRLW will welcome four new teams: the Canberra Raiders, Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, and the Wests Tigers. These additions will undoubtedly bring fresh energy and rivalries to the competition, adding another layer of excitement for fans.
The season will kick off on July 22 with a thrilling Queensland derby between the Titans and the Cowboys. Following that, premiers Newcastle will take on St George Illawarra, setting the stage for an intense season of matches.
One of the highlights of Round One will be the first-ever primetime NRLW fixture, featuring the Brisbane Broncos and the Sydney Roosters. This highly anticipated matchup will be a must-watch for rugby league enthusiasts.
Throughout the season, matches will be hosted at various stadiums, including Sunshine Coast Stadium, CommBank Stadium, and PointsBet Stadium. Fans can look forward to a double header at PointsBet Stadium, featuring the Cronulla Sharks and the Canberra Raiders.
Standalone double headers will be a prominent feature of the NRLW season, with nine standalone matches taking place in various club markets. Additionally, 18 club double headers will give fans the opportunity to enjoy multiple matches in a single event.
For the first time ever, all teams will have the chance to host a club double header, adding to the excitement for both players and supporters. Round Two will feature an exhilarating double header at the Gabba, with the Brisbane Broncos facing off against the Gold Coast before the men’s match.
Round Three will present an all-Queensland double header at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, showcasing the immense talent from the state.
The final two rounds will introduce primetime Thursday night matches, providing fans with the opportunity to enjoy NRLW matches in the evening.
The grand final of the NRLW will take place on October 1, preceding the men’s decider, ensuring a thrilling conclusion to the season.
In a landmark move, every match of the season will be televised on free-to-air TV nationally, with prime-time coverage available for the first time. This increased visibility aims to provide more career opportunities for female athletes, increase fan engagement, and promote women’s participation in sport.
Fans can catch all the action on the Nine Network, Fox Sports, and Kayo Sports, making the matches accessible to a wide audience.
The 2023 NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership promises to be a monumental season, with expanded teams, thrilling matchups, and unprecedented coverage. Rugby league enthusiasts and sports fans alike can eagerly anticipate the start of the season and the chance to witness the growth and success of women’s rugby league on a national stage.
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