Blockbuster ... the Roosters and Rabbitohs are likely to open the 2013 season. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Limited
The NRL is planning another blockbuster to kick-off the 2013 season on a Thursday night, but Canterbury-Bankstown boss Todd Greenberg looks unlikely to be granted his wish of a season-opening grudge match against a Sydney Roosters side containing Sonny Bill Williams.
Following a meeting of club chief executives on Thursday, the NRL announced it would kick-off the first four rounds of the season with a Thursday night fixture.
The 2013 NRL draw, including the days and times of each match for the first 20 rounds won't be finalised until mid-November, but a Roosters v South Sydney round one Thursday night showdown before a bumper crowd is looming as the ideal way to kick off the new broadcasting deal.
The two matches between the Roosters and Rabbitohs this year were among the most memorable games of the season, with both clashes between the bitter rivals being decided in the final seconds of play.
Matches between the foundation clubs have been a tradition feature of the NRL's opening round for a number of seasons now and it is understood Channel Nine and both the Roosters and the Rabbitohs are keen to continue that on the opening day of the year at Allianz Stadium.
The 2011 season began on a Friday night with another epic contest between the Rabbitohs and the Roosters, while this year started on a Thursday night with a Wayne-Bennett coached Newcastle coming up against his former club St George-Illawarra.
Greenberg had been keen for Canterbury to host an opening round match against a side containing former Bulldog Williams - who is yet to be confirmed as a Roosters signing for 2013.
Williams controversially walked out on the Bulldogs midway through the 2008 season to play rugby union in France.
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But it is increasingly unlikely to happen with the Roosters and Rabbitohs eyeing off the round one opener, in what would be a mouth-watering start to the new season.
The match is sure to be afforded star billing given the Rabbitohs fantastic season this year, and the hype surrounding Williams' probable signing with the Roosters and the acquisition at Bondi Junction of rookie coach Trent Robinson.
It is the Roosters turn to host the round one match.
New Roosters chief operating officer commercial Ted Helliar was reluctant to be drawn on a Thursday night start between the arch enemies until the draw was finalised.
But he did say: "Obviously it is the desire of both clubs to play against each other in round one as has been the case for a number of years.
"And it would be a great opportunity for the members, sponsors, players and staff of both the Roosters and the Rabbitohs to be involved in the first game of the season, no better way to kick off 2013."
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