NRL news 2026: Nicho Hynes on Allianz Stadium crowd; Sharks vs Cowboys; Shark Park capacity, comments
NRL star Nicho Hynes has criticized the decision to move a home final match from the Cronulla Sharks' home ground to Allianz Stadium. Hynes expressed frustration over the low attendance and the lack of adequate facilities at the Sharks' home stadium.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing infrastructure challenges in professional sports and the impact of stadium quality on fan experience and team performance.
Sport NRL NRL Hynes blasts ‘embarrassing’ stadium saga as empty seats expose sorry sight Lachlan Harper Updated September 13, 2026 - 12.08am . First published at 12.07am
shares Share article Sharks star Nicho Hynes has described the turn out at Allianz Stadium as “embarrassing” after Cronulla fans were forced to relocate from the Shire.
Despite earning the right to a home final, the match against North Queensland was played on neutral territory at Allianz due to Shark Park’s substandard facilities.
The crowd at Allianz Stadium was recorded at just over 17,000 with the empty seats noticeable on the broadcast. Shark Park’s capacity sits at 15,000.
“It’s a little bit upsetting, disappointing and embarrassing there’s so many free seats here,” Hynes said on Nine’s coverage.
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