The Sydney Roosters have confirmed nine of their home games next season will be played at the SCG, beginning with their NRL opener against South Sydney.

Due to the reconstruction of Allianz Stadium, the Roosters had already pencilled in their first four home games at the historic venue at last week’s draw release.

However the defending premiers on Thursday allocated the final five regular season games next door to their traditional home.

There they will face South Sydney, Brisbane, St George Illawarra and the Wests Tigers over the opening half of the season.

The Roosters won’t return to the oval ground until round 18, having taken a ‘home’ game to Suncorp Stadium as part of the inaugural NRL Magic Round.

Then the Tricolours will host games on the road with matches against Melbourne in Adelaide, and against North Queensland in Gosford.

Trent Robinson’s side close out the year with fixtures against Newcastle, Gold Coast, the Warriors and Penrith.

The Roosters also visit Western Sydney Stadium for the first time when they meet the Tigers in round 16.