League: NZRL waits to hear on two-test bid

There is backing from an unlikely source for New Zealand League to host both Tri-Series tests against Australia later in the year.

The NZRL should find out today if it has been successful in winning the bid to stage two tests, rather than just one.

Australian officials want to play one of the matches across the Tasman, but the Kiwis want to claim both.

Australian coach Wayne Bennett is backing the Kiwis to play at home twice.

NZRL chairman Selwyn Pearson said Bennett has a genuine interest in the Kiwis and a wish to see test matches shared around.

Pearson said Australia can not have all the cake, including State of Origin games and the annual ANZAC test, as the imbalance is not good for rugby league.

He also said the NRL has not endorsed a North-South game here this year, but they are still trying to stage the match from next year onwards, with all eligible players released.

- NEWSTALK ZB