NSW Waratahs approached to bring Super Rugby to Central Coast Stadium

Central Coast Stadium has made a behind-the-scenes play to secure the Waratahs for the winter of 2020, days after the SCG was criticised as not up to scratch by several sporting codes.

Waratahs' Jed Holloway scores a try against Canterbury Crusaders at the SCG. Picture: Jeremy Piper

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CENTRAL Coast Stadium has made a play to secure a blockbuster tenant for the winter of 2020.

Just days after the SCG was criticised as not up to scratch by several codes, the Express Advocate has learned Central Coast Council considered a bid to host the ‘Tahs in a confidential meeting held on Monday.

Staff remained tight-lipped saying the council had discussed a bid for an “international sporting event” while deputy mayor Chris Holstein would only say “we’re putting in a bid for this event. We’re giving everything we can to it. If you’re a sporting fiend — you’ll love it”.

A NSW Rugby spokeswoman confirmed an expression of interest process was currently in market.

Israel Folau of the Waratahs is tackled by Harumichi Tatekawa of the Sunwolves during the Super Rugby match played in Newcastle last week. Picture: Paul Barkley

“NSW Rugby Union is looking at different venues across the State for 2020 and 2021 while it’s home ground at Moore Park, Sydney, is under construction,” she said.

“The expression of interest process closes on the 12 April 2019. A decision of venues for the next three years will be decided later during 2019.”

The Waratahs are playing three home games at the Sydney Cricket Ground this year, however there has been concerns about the condition of the fields after it was ripped up during the Waratahs match against the Queensland Reds in March.

Chewed up surface after a scrum during the Super Rugby match between the Waratahs and Queensland Reds at the SCG. Picture: Craig Golding

Both the Waratahs and Roosters have been looking at alternate home ground venues while Moore Park is being rebuilt.

A council spokeswoman said the Central Coast Stadium “was committed to continually sourcing opportunities to bring more sporting events to the Coast, and is currently working with relevant stakeholders”.

“The iconic stadium has an excellent reputation as great venue for elite sports and management are interested in talking to any clubs seeking a venue,” she said.