Open accessibility guideSkip to sections navigationSkip to contentSkip to footerAdvertisementSportAFLThe controversial Opening Round is still in the plans at this point in time for the next season, even if it means that the finals series could lose key venues due to the Rugby World Cup.Updated June 29, 2026 — 9:37pm,first published 9:34pmLoadingLatest in VideosVideo icon1:51‘No nuclear safety plan’: AUKUS pact under scrutiny at public inquiryVideo icon2:00Man who allegedly murdered Thai teenager had history with police in PerthVideo icon0:24Man charged with murder and torture of Bundaberg baby two years agoVideo icon1:14Police security officer allegedly threatened wife with service gun, court hearsAdvertisementTwitterFacebookInstagramRSSOur SitesThe AgeThe Sydney Morning HeraldBrisbane TimesWAtodayThe Australian Financial Reviewnine.com.auDriveClassifiedsTributesPlace your adThe AgeContact & supportAdvertise with usNewslettersAccessibility guideSitemapPhoto salesPurchase front pagesContent licensingWork with usTerms of usePrivacy policyPress CouncilCharter of Editorial IndependenceAI Editorial GuidelinesProducts & ServicesSubscription packagesMy accountSubscriber FAQsDelivery statusToday’s PaperGood Food GuideDaily PuzzlesCopyright © 2026Subscribe
Why Opening Round is not being rubbed out just yet
The controversial Opening Round is still in the plans at this point in time for the next season, even if it means that the finals series could lose key venues due to the Rugby World Cup.










