Russell Crowe, Hugh Jackman to be used as pulling power in landing blockbuster NRL clash in US

RUSSELL Crowe versus Hugh Jackman. It’s not the makings of the next Marvel movie but a rugby league dream the NRL hope to turn into a reality.

RUSSELL Crowe versus Hugh Jackman.

It’s not the makings of the next Marvel movie but a rugby league dream the NRL hope to turn into a reality.

Discussions are well advanced for a blockbuster showdown between South Sydney and Manly to open the NRL season in the US next year.

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Russell Crowe and Hugh Jackman could be used to attract interest for an NRL game in the US.

It would be the first time an NRL match has been played outside of Australia or New Zealand. The Sunday Telegraph can reveal that the Crowe-owned Rabbitohs are likely to face Manly, whose most famous supporter is X-Men star Jackman.

The NRL hope they can use the pulling power of the Hollywood superstars to increase interest in the match and reach a new audience for the code.

The Melbourne Storm were originally slated to take on the Rabbitohs but Manly have now emerged as the likely opponents. It is understood the match will be a Manly home game.

The Rabbitohs co-owner could be a major factor in the launching of the game. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

The proposal was discussed in detail at the NRL’s finance committee on Friday where it gathered support. It still needs to be approved by the Australian Rugby League Commission. The Sunday Telegraph understands there are plans for the match to be a multi-year deal.

Dubbed “round zero” the fixture is set to occur on Saturday, March 9, with the timezone difference allowing the game to be broadcast live in Australia on Sunday afternoon.

Jackman is a fanatical Sea Eagles supporter.

Los Angeles is the likely host for the game.

The 22-000 seat Banc of California Stadium — home to Major League Soccer Club Los Angeles FC — is one option. LA Galaxy’s StubHub Center, which holds 27,000, is another option.

Crowe was among the 19,320 people who watched England play New Zealand in Denver in June.