RUGBY league's No.1 player Johnathan Thurston could be denied his wish for a fixed-season schedule next year as the code's governors attempt to maximise value on the new broadcasting deal.
Interim ARL Commission chief executive Shane Mattiske has revealed the value of the code's much-vaunted TV rights deal could dwindle if next season's draw is so rigid it denies broadcasters the ability to reschedule matches.
Thurston blasted the game's current schedule a fortnight ago, saying planning NRL rounds only a month in advance affected player preparation and failed to provide clarity for clubs.
But the push for an AFL-style fixed-season schedule, where every round is mapped out in the off season, could cost the code millions if incumbent rights holders Channel 9 and Fox Sports are denied input on scheduling.
While mindful of Thurston's views, Mattiske said retaining some flexibility in the season schedule is vital as the commission faces pressure to broker a TV deal of at least $1 billion.
It is rumoured the ARLC is close to securing an $850 million cash deal, bolstered by $150 million in contra advertising, but Mattiske would not comment on either figure.
"By having some flexibility in the draw, that can certainly maximise the ratings value for the broadcasters and the value for the code," Mattiske said.
"I couldn't estimate what it would cost (the code in potential value), but the broadcasters attach significant value to flexibility in the schedule.
"We are definitely looking to improve our scheduling system. We understand the importance of delivering certainty to our fans, players, the clubs and our stakeholders, and part of the negotiation revolves around that factor.
"But we also have to understand how the broadcasters can attribute value to the rights and how it is affected by shifting it from flexible scheduling to fixed scheduling.
"We have considered block scheduling where we lock in two-thirds of the season, which leaves the final third flexible.
"As we come into the finals now, having flexibility in the draw is certainly attractive for the broadcasters and can ease the burden on clubs."
Many clubs have publicly called for more far-reaching scheduling as it would permit more exact planning by fans and corporate backers.
It is expected the ARLC will finalise the broadcasting deal during the finals series next month, but Mattiske said there is no pressure to ink the TV rights contract by September.
