If there's such a thing as clarity in this uncertain pandemic world, National Rugby League players and their fans in Australia received a bit more of it on Thursday.
The NRL announced a revised 16-round schedule for the competition, which has been suspended since March 23 because of coronovirus restrictions imposed after just two rounds of the season were played. There will be no paying spectators at matches.
The venues for the opening nine rounds were confirmed with all matches to take place at one of six grounds two in suburban Sydney, one north of Sydney in Gosford, two in Queensland state at Brisbane and Townsville, and one in Melbourne.
If coronavirus restrictions are further eased after nine rounds, it's possible teams may be able to play matches at their home grounds.
The season resumes May 28 with the Brisbane Broncos hosting Parramatta to start the third round, which also features a match between old rivals the Sydney Roosters and South Sydney Rabbitohs. The Roosters are seeking a third NRL premiership in a row.
"Everyone has fought so hard to get the game back on the field," NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo said. "There are new fixtures and new venues, but when the players take the field, the desire to win will be that much higher given the sacrifices made to this point."