South Sydney Rabbitohs owner and Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe has lent his voice to a five-minute NRL promotional, explaining the rules of rugby league in a bid to attract US audiences to the historic double header in Las Vegas.
The video is the latest marketing ploy from the NRL, and likely to be one of the most effective methods yet, with Crowe’s dulcet tones detailing the rules of the game in a succinct yet comprehensive manner.
Crowe is expected to be in attendance at Allegiant Stadium when the Rabbitohs play the Manly Sea Eagles on March 3 (AEDT).
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That game will be followed by the Brisbane Broncos taking on the Sydney Roosters.
Crowe, one of the most recognisable Australians worldwide, explains the sport as if he’s talking to those more familiar with American football.
“Rugby league is football… but maybe not as you know it,” Crowe narrates.
“Arguably the fastest, most aggressive, football game that exists.”
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The video delves into all of the rules of the game, the tactics involved and how all players contribute on offence and defence, which isn’t the case in American football.
Crowe isn’t the only star power the NRL have used to promote the season opening double header.
Former Souths junior-turned NFL superstar Jordan Mailata is in Vegas for the lead up to Monday’s Super Bowl as an ambassador for the NRL.
Mailata caught up with Hollywood royalty, The Rock, showing him some NRL highlights and asking for his opinion on a rugby league ball.
“The NRL is coming over and I just want to get your thoughts on the ball,” Mailata told The Rock.
The NRL are also reportedly in talks with Mailata’s Philadelphia Eagles teammate Jason Kelce and his brother Travis to attend the double header.
Travis Kelce, of course, is currently dating pop superstar Taylor Swift.
