sparking News: Just few minute ago Tigers coach made the best decision on…
Richardson told reporters a “decayed” Leichhardt Oval needs a facelift, and he’s made a case to the NSW government to help the club do it, potentially beginning a stadium war with the Panthers in the process.
Richardson and Inner W
est Council Mayor Darcy Byrne appealed to NSW Premier Chris Minns to allocate 10% of the proposed $309 million budget to upgrade Panthers Stadium.
The Panthers are set to start renovations on their home ground after his season, which will mean the club won’t play any games there in 2025.
Byrne told reporters that fans and the club deserved the Tigers’ spiritual home to be revamped instead of torn down.
“Leichhardt Oval hasn’t received any funding from the state government since Benji Marshall was in nappies,” Byrne said.
“There’s no good reason Penrith’s stadium should have gold-plated urinals, while famous Leichhardt Oval is forced to close through neglect.”
Richardson says the time is ticking on the government, with the decorated sports administrator stressing a decision on whether the ground is allocated funding has to be made soon.
“We’ll be making that decision over the next 60 to 90 days,” Richardson said.
“I’ve told our different stakeholders, but we’ll make a decision that is best for the club.
“It’s a great rugby league ground, but it’s decayed…
