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0 Leichhardt Oval is facing an uncertain future, with the iconic home of the Wests Tigers in desperate need of an upgrade.
Saturday night’s massive win for the side over Cronulla saw the ground packed with fans, but has again shined a light on Leichhardt’s long-term future as an NRL venue.
As it stands, the Tigers are only locked in to play there until the end of 2024, leaving the door open for more games at Campbelltown Stadium or CommBank Stadium next year.
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Speaking on The Bye Round podcast, chief executive Shane Richardson admitted there are concerns around Leichhardt’s place in the club’s future and is looking for “assurances” from the local council.
”Leichhardt is nowhere near the standard – it might be the eighth wonder of the world, but even the pyramids get cleaned and upgraded every now and again,” he said.
“At the end of the day the Leichhardt and Campbelltown councils have to understand clearly that we are only there for this year, we need some assurances.
“Let’s be brutally honest, look at all the great clubs in the NRL. Where do the Melbourne Storm play? At a great stadium. Where do the Roosters play? Where do Souths play? Where do Parramatta play? Penrith are getting a brand new stadium built.
“You might upset a few people but it has to be what is best for the growth of the club. If you are not thinking that way, you will continue to go backwards.”
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Leichhardt Oval was the long-time home of Balmain prior to the merger and has continued to hold a fond place in the heart’s of the joint-venture’s fanbase.
However, the lack of corporate hospitality and overall amenities available has left Richardson pondering whether it can continue to host first grade fixtures.
”We will play at the most commercially viable ground to grow our 30,000 members, to grow the ground corporately,” he said.
“We had 300 corporates on Saturday night …. we could sell 700. We will play where we believe we can grow the Wests Tigers club.
“That is a decision we will make based on the economics of the club.”
Prior to the round three win over Cronulla, the venue was also given a two-year shelf life to host NRL matches over safety concerns.
