Canberra Raiders set to learn fate as NRL prepares to unveil draw

Raiders chief executive Don Furner concedes home games at Canberra Stadium are likely to be off the agenda until July, with the Green Machine likely to become Sydney specialists when the season resumes.

The NRL is on the cusp of finalising a new agreement with broadcasters Channel Nine and Fox Sports to pave the way for the entire draw to be confirmed next week.

For now ARL commission chairman Peter V'Landys says rounds three and four will be revealed on Friday, with games likely to be limited to a small amount of venues.

The Raiders were scheduled to play St George Illawarra in round three before the competition was brought to an abrupt halt by the coronavirus pandemic.

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A revamped schedule is tipped to include two grand final rematches between Canberra and the Sydney Roosters. Canterbury, Newcastle, New Zealand and the Dragons have all been touted as teams the Raiders could meet twice this season.

"They've got various models at the moment but it's important to note that can't be finalised until the broadcasting deal is agreed with both Channel Nine and Fox Sports," Furner told the club's Behind the Limelight podcast.

"Because of the way the contract is written, they get certain picks. Until that is agreed, we won't get a draw. We are hoping it will be mid to late next week, that's the NRL's aim.

"At this stage I would foresee us not playing here in June and perhaps even in July. The NRL in satisfying government protocols are looking at only a few stadiums. It's easier for control, it's easier for security checks. It's also more cost efficient for broadcasters.

"Sadly the Viking clap and our fantastic supporters that make it a hard time for those visiting teams won't be there, so we will have to replicate somehow the intimidation factor."

The NRL is considering making the Raiders avoid games in Queensland as the state government refuses to budge on its stance that no players shall train or play there without a flu shot after Sia Soliola, Josh Papalii and Joe Tapine opted to sign a waiver rather than get the injection.

Queensland-based clubs have grown frustrated that some rivals may avoid travelling to the sunshine state due to players refusing to get the flu shot.

"Absolutely vital [that nobody makes mistakes]. Cooperation from the government has been fantastic, and obviously the governments are all nervous too because this is an unprecedented time," Furner said.

"Clearly our sport is under the spotlight all the time, we are watched all the time, so we have to be extra vigilant."