The NRL has officially launched the 2015 season in Auckland overnight, with Eels Nines Captain Chris Sandow on hand to represent the Blue and Gold.
Sandow attended the launch with teammate Tim Mannah and Head Coach Brad Arthur, and the halfback was thrilled at the prospect of running out for the second time in the Auckland Nines on Saturday.
"It's really exciting," Sandow said.
"It’s a good brand of footy played over the weekend and .I think everyone sat that last year."
"It’s good to tie up the boots again and go around again for Parramatta this year."
Speaking at the launch, NRL CEO Dave Smith said the Nines tournament was just the beginning of a massive 10-month season of footy, including the return of the Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars, and a special commemoration of the 100th ANZAC Day with five matches in five cities on the same day.
“It is an exceptional calendar which has something for everyone,” Smith said.
The launch itself also highlighted a milestone: holding the 2015 NRL season launch in Auckland also marked the Warriors' 20th year in the NRL Competition.
Click through to see the Eels' draw for the 2015 Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines
