Update on taking rugby league to America in move which could see The Rock and Hugh Jackman become faces of the game

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo has again spoken about the possibility of the first game of the 2023 NRL season being held in America.

This concept has long been discussed leading to suggestions that it could lead to Hollywood stars Dwayne The Rock Johnson and Hugh Jackman becoming the faces of rugby league in America.

On the topic, Abdo spoke to The Sydney Morning Herald recently with an update on the potential of the fixture in 2023.

“We are absolutely looking at it,” Abdo told The Sydney Morning Herald.

“Growth in the game in America is real for us, we believe rugby league is the best professional sport on the planet and an opportunity to take that to a market like America is enticing for us.

“We will be looking at that and working hard on making that happen over the long term. It’s certainly a consideration for the draw for next year.

“We’re working as quickly as we can to get into position to have that certainty and plan.

“It’s a long-term plan and the commission want to see it from all angles. We’re looking at the west coast (of America) because the time zone and the weather is important, not too hot and not too cold.

“Broadcasting back into Australia in peak time zones for our fans here is important, as is the wellbeing and turnaround for the two teams with their travel.

“All that means is we’re looking at the west coast, but which stadiums and which city remains a work in progress.”

Manly Sea Eagles are the only side currently attached to the project with South Sydney Rabbitohs pulling out.

However Sydney Roosters and Melbourne Storm are being linked with the event according to ZeroTackle.