WHERE THE TOP CANDIDATES FOR THE VACANT NRL CEO ROLE STAND:-
* Andrew Abdo
The new acting chief executive and front-runner for the top job. A South African who has spent six years as the NRL’s chief commercial operator. Has been in charge of the game’s brand and sponsorship since 2013. Joined chairman Peter V’landys on a recent trip to the USA to meet with Lachlan Murdoch and streaming services, and is also part of the Project Apollo Committee. The chartered accountant shapes as a big chance and has plenty of supporters.
* Dave Trodden
The boss of the NSW Rugby League since 2013 didn’t want to comment when asked by AAP on Tuesday. Has a background in law and spent almost a decade as chairman of the Wests Tigers before joining the NSWRL. Got the NSWRL Centre of Excellence at Homebush across the line and swept through reform merging with the Country Rugby League last year following three decades of talks.
* Paul White
Brisbane’s chief executive since 2010 wouldn’t comment on whether he was interested, saying his focus remained on the Broncos during the coronavirus. A former police officer, White has impressed some within the NRL as he sat in recent meetings with players regarding wages during the hiatus. Has previously stated he plans on leaving the Broncos at the end of this season.
* Peter V’landys
The game’s chairman has indicated he doesn’t want to take on an executive chairman position. Has already taken on a larger role as leading man through the coronavirus with broadcasters amid the discontent with Greenberg. Is already the CEO of Racing NSW.
* Don Furner
The Canberra Raiders CEO has told AAP he is not interested in a move to the NRL. One of the most respected club bosses in the game, Furner has been CEO of the Raiders since 2008. Has a seat on the NRL’s Project Apollo Committee and recently helped set up and open the Raiders’ $20-million centre of excellence.
* Dave Donaghy
The Melbourne club boss has told AAP he is happy and content in Melbourne. Considered a smooth operator, Donaghy has gone from the Storm’s media manager to chief executive since first arriving at the club in 2008. Has a background as a journalist and also spent three years with the Brisbane Lions in the AFL.
* Blake Solly
The South Sydney boss has confirmed to AAP he won’t apply for the NRL role. Potentially had one of the best resumes of any club applicant, having spent two years as general manager of the English Super League between 2014 and 2016. Has a background in law and sat on NRL committees in the past.
* Simon McGrath
Another to rule himself out of the race after telling the Daily Telegraph he wasn’t interested. The chief operating officer at Accor Hotels went close to securing the top job in 2016, despite a lack of a rugby league background.