Warriors’ clearance awaited

SYDNEY: NRL coaches remain committed to their decision not to begin a minipreseason until the Warriors are cleared to train as a group in Australia as the game nears crunch time.

Yesterday, Australian Rugby Leage Commission chairman Peter V'landys flagged a decision on the competition structure by tomorrow, telling 2GB Radio he expected the season to be between 17 and 20 rounds.

The NRL is confident of resolving the broadcast agreement and government clearances by the end of next week, which would be a huge step towards a May 28 resumption.

The Warriors are awaiting approval from the Australian and state governments as well as Border Force to be cleared to arrive in the country. They need an exemption to train as a group instead of a mandatory 14day isolation for individuals.

Following strict biosecurity measures, an exemption would allow the Warriors to resume training on May 4, giving teams just over three weeks to prepare for round three.

NRL Coaches Association boss Kelly Egan confirmed coaches remained united in a decision to hold off training until all 16 clubs could resume, to be fair to the Warriors.

``There's been lots of conversation. We're all on the same page. Our competition needs the Warriors.''

Queensland and Victoria are also awaiting approval from their respective governments to resume training and possibly fly in and out of New South Wales for games. Yesterday, Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said she had received detailed plans from two major sporting codes to resume playing, although she refused to identify the governing bodies.

In a sign of hope for the NRL, the premier appeared open to the proposals.

``I have received two. They have been forwarded to the chief health officer to get their advice,’’ she said.

``People are innovative and I'm quite sure people want to see sport resume.

``We need to make sure it is compliant with the health advice.’’