Harnessing national fervour in pursuit of victory in Vegas

New Zealand Warriors coach Andrew Webster and two of his players have endorsed rugby league's standing as the biggest sport in the Pacific, arguing that Saturday’s return to Las Vegas will make it even bigger.

If anyone was going to offer an alternative narrative to the argument about the sport’s standing across Australasia and the islands, it would be those who live in the Shaky Isles where rugby union is still regarded by many as the national sport.

But with the Aucklanders contributing more fans to the Vegas extravaganza than any other club, fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad said of the NRL pronouncement: “I actually think it’s true, eh?"

“I think just what we’ve been able to do over the last couple of years... we’re the first club in NRL history to sell out all games, last year.

“It’s been building since 2023 - a lot of anticipation, a lot of excitement and we’re ready.”

Revenue, participation, crowds, TV ratings and assets led the NRL to make the conclusion when its annual report was issued that it was now the region’s No.1 sport.

Speaking at Resorts World in Las Vegas, Warriors hooker Wayde Egan said the perspective of an Australian living in the City Of Sails was that league was in the ascendancy.

“The way the last couple of years have gone, maybe it’s turned a little bit,” the Lithgow-born 27-year-old said.

“Rugby’s a very dominant sport in New Zealand as everyone knows but I think league’s starting to catch up in a sense. And I think, as Charnze said, selling out the games last year was an awesome thing.

“The whole country got behind us. They’re some crazy fans and they’re dedicated, loyal fans. We appreciate that and it’s awesome to see them flying over.”

Webster - whose coaching CV includes a stint with Connecticut Wildcats - said: “I thought it was pretty cool... we’re the No.1 watched (sport) anyway. It’s a credit to the game and to all the fans.

“If you spend any time in Australasia at the moment, you know that rugby league’s the game.”

Webster says he tells Americans: “What’s the difference between league and union? Rugby union’s like softball and rugby league’s like baseball. Similar concepts, it’s just a different way we go about it.

“I just can’t believe we’re here playing rugby league in Las Vegas, you know? Unbelievable!

“It’s a real credit to the game and where it’s at. 

“We are the most well-supported team. Our fans are just so passionate. Rugby league in New Zealand is just going really good at the moment.”

Nicoll-Klokstad, meanwhile, said the time difference may affect the Warriors less than other teams.

“It’s only three hours (time difference to) New Zealand so we’re pretty lucky,” said the 29-year-old. “We adjusted pretty well.

“I haven’t experienced this and a lot of the other boys haven’t... It’s something unique, it’s special to be part of as I was saying and it’s going to be electric on Saturday. I can’t wait.