The MCG could host the NRL grand final after the Victorian government launched a sensational bid to uproot the game from Sydney. The NSW government on Thursday announced a $700 million plan to convert ANZ Stadium into a rectangular venue, part of a $1.6 billion investment into Sydney's stadiums.

Redevelopment of the Olympic stadium is tipped to take from 2019 to 2022, leaving it open for the NRL decider to be taken interstate.

Having sat next to NSW Premier Mike Baird at last year's State of Origin rugby league match at the MCG – watched by more than 90,000 at the ground – Victorian Sports Minister John Eren has set his sights on landing the NRL grand final.