NRL CEO Todd Greenberg expects the league to finalise which state hosts the 2021 grand final within the six weeks after extending the NSW Government's negotiation deadline.
With the refurbishments to transform ANZ Stadium into a rectangular venue due to continue for the next two seasons, the SCG – which holds significantly less patrons – would host the decider.
The NRL is seeking a compensation deal from the NSW Government because of the delays and an agreement is yet to be reached.
Other states, particularly Queensland, have shown interest in being the first place to host an NRL grand final outside of Sydney.
However, Greenberg said the NRL is still talking to the NSW Government and a deal is not far away.
"We're getting closer. I said at the start of the finals series that we were a little frustrated. Since that time we’ve had some more dialogue with NSW Government," Greenberg said after the NRL beamed stirring images from the season onto the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Monday night.
"We're quietly working through that behind the scenes and we're hoping to wrap that up in a short space of time.
"In simple terms, we put a deadline between us and Government to try to bring it to a conclusion. To be fair to NSW Government, they've had some changes, particularly in the ministry, so we're conscious of that.
"They've been great partners of us for a long period of time, so we've agreed with them to extend [the deadline] by a period of time."
For the next seven nights (September 30 to October 7), the Sydney Harbour Bridge pylons will be lit up by special NRL moments captured throughout 2019 to celebrate this Sunday's grand final between the Roosters and Raiders.
Barnstorming Parramatta rookie Maika Sivo and record-breaking Melbourne 400-gamer Cameron Smith were featured in the images, with Greenberg nominating the duo's achievements this year among his favourites.
"[But] I'm really hoping that the best moment is still to come on Sunday. For those who ever been to a grand final or been part of grand final week, this is without doubt the best part of our game," Greenberg said.
"This week we really shine for all the good things we do … It's something different, we haven't done this before. All credit to Destination NSW and our partnership with the government here in NSW."
A photo of the winner of the Dally M Medal will be projected onto the bridge in real time as the ceremony takes place at the Hordern Pavilion on Wednesday evening. Roosters fullback James Tedesco is the favourite for the honour.
