Eden Park chief admits his claim about biggest NRL semifinal was wrong

Eden Park’s chief executive admitted his earlier claim that the upcoming NRL semifinal would be New Zealand’s biggest league event was wrong. The match pits the New Zealand Warriors against the Newcastle Knights at the stadium. Warriors head coach confirmed the squad was reduced for the final after a spate of injuries. However, a late injury clearance added Halasima to the line‑up and Lucas returned after a miraculous recovery, giving the team a boost. The Knights entered the game with a full complement of players. Both clubs view the do‑or‑die semifinal as a chance to reach the NRL Grand Final. The fixture is being billed as a landmark occasion for rugby league in the country.