“If the NRL is looking for a game that showcases rivalry and tradition, is attractive to domestic, US and UK viewers and guarantees a travelling crowd then they should go with Dragons against the Bulldogs,” Lancaster said.

“Round one with the Bulldogs at Kogarah this year will be a sell-out, as was the last time we played.”

A potential sticking point is that the NRL will need one of the clubs to volunteer to be the home team. Clubs have been reluctant to claim home status in Vegas as it means missing out on the revenue from a genuine home fixture during the season.

However, an option under consideration is to make the Vegas clash a neutral fixture, meaning the clubs could potentially split the gate on their return match back in Australia at a neutral venue like Allianz Stadium.

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The NRL has not rubber-stamped any teams for 2026 at this stage and is expected to request submissions in the next month.

“The Las Vegas season opening is becoming bigger and bigger,” NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo said.

“We’ve had great interest from fans and new sponsors because of the game. The clubs that we’ve taken have been great partners and there’s strong interest from the remaining clubs to partake in 2026, which is a great position to be in.

“Our focus at the moment is making sure 2025 is as successful as possible, once that is completed we will then request submissions for the commission to consider for the 2026 season.”