Rugby league greats Andrew Johns and Brad Fittler have thrown their support behind the idea of hosting next year's NRL 'Magic Round' in New Zealand.
Responding to a viewer-submitted question on NRL on Nine, both agreed that the annual round of matches at a single venue should next be played in Auckland, as recognition for NZ Warriors' sacrifices during the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two seasons.
Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium has hosted both Magic Rounds to date, with the 2021 edition scheduled this weekend.
NRL 'Immortal' Johns says the success of the four nines events held at Eden Park between 2014 and 2017 was proof the Kiwis could deliver a similar spectacle for the event.
"What a great idea," Johns says. "The nines were incredible... when they were at Eden Park, it was the best weekend. They do it really well over there.”
Sydney Roosters and Australia legend Fittler - now coach of the NSW State of Origin team - went even further, suggesting it could be co-hosted at both Eden Park and the Warriors' Mt Smart Stadium home.
"It wouldn't be a bad thing to do," Fittler says.
The 2021 Magic Round begins with West Tigers against Newcastle Knights on Friday, with the Warriors in action against Parramatta Eels on Sunday.
Join us at 4pm Sunday, for live updates of NZ Warriors against Parramatta Eels
