The NRL has reached an agreement with Foxtel and Nine for a 20-round season, recommencing from May 28.
With two rounds having already been played prior to the season being stopped, the additional 18 rounds will see the 2020 season conclude with an October 25 grand final.
“Today is a landmark day for rugby league in 2020,” said ARL chairman Peter V’landys in a statement.
“This is a great outcome for our players, fans, partners and stakeholders and I’m extremely appreciative for the cooperation and support from Hugh Marks and Patrick Delany.
“Both have always acted in good-spirit and have demonstrated how partners work together.”
State of Origin will be played following the conclusion of the regular season.
According to the Nine-owned Sydney Morning Herald, the NRL is working off a “minimum guarantee” from the broadcasters for the shortened season.
Foxtel, Nine and Telstra pay roughly $325 million per year for the rights to broadcast the game.
This figure is expected to be significantly lower in 2020.
The NRL has spent the last month trying to come to an agreement with Foxtel and Nine.
B&T reported last week the Nine was pushing to shorten the season to just 17 rounds, with the grand final taking place as scheduled on October 4. Foxtel was believed to be leaning towards a 22-round season, taking the last match into early November.
With Nine reportedly pushing for exclusive matches, there has even been talk of Seven swooping in to pick up spare games.
However, recent reports that Seven is trying to shed its existing sports broadcast deals would suggest this is highly unlikely.
Earlier this month, Nine released a statement attacking the NRL’s management and accusing the code of wasting funds.
