ARLC Chairman wants start time of Sunday Origin made earlier

The ARLC Chairman Peter Beattie states the NRL should move the start time of future Sunday State of Origin games to a 4pm kick-off time.

Beattie believes moving the time slot from 7:50pm to 4pm would be highly regarded by fans as it would better suit them, and is calling upon Channel 9 to take the responsibility to change the time.

This comes after the figures for the ratings were released, noting game Two's ratings were significantly down on the series opener three weeks back.

A 4pm kick-off would be a much more family friendly time slot as it seems to work effectively with a regular NRL season game broadcasted at that time each week, receiving solid viewership by fans.

An earlier start could also mean the Origin wouldn't have to compete with prime-time reality TV shows such as MasterChef and House Rules on competing networks.

Taking to Twitter, Beattie went in search to find out reactions and thoughts from the fans on the current starting time.

After numerous comments replying to fans, Beattie shared his own opinions on the subject matter.

"The fans view is clear; Sunday afternoon is overwhelmingly preferred," Beattie said.

"NRL would therefore look favourably at 4 pm on a Sunday. A good family friendly time, kids can watch and BBQs before the game. Over to ch 9 now."

Time will tell whether or not State of Origin will continued to be played on Sunday's and at what time they choose to start the game.