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he NRL Dally M Awards has received disaster ratings as the opening stage attracted an average of only 48,000 viewers on Fox League, which ranked below several other shows on the same evening.

With the event split over two days and seven days apart, it has been viewed less than any AFL and rugby league variety programs.

Fox Footy’s AFL 360 attracted 69,000 viewers on that same night, while On The Couch attracted 57,000 viewers.

Fox League’s NRL 360 had 67,000 viewers on the program before the awards but showed many people switching the channel during the event.

Low broadcast rating is due to NRL fans on social media expressing their disinterest in the new event set up as fans criticised it being “Awful” compared to the AFL Brownlow.

NRL CEO, Andrew Abdo explained the Dally M’s were being held in Brisbane with a new format as the event was split over two days.

“The Dally M awards showcase the exceptional performances of the season and this year we can celebrate the achievements of our players and officials across two events,” he said.

“With the entire competition relocated to Queensland in 2021, it was important to think differently for our awards this year.

“We have a new format and the first-ever Dally M event in Queensland, ahead of the first-ever Grand Final in Brisbane.

“The new format will allow some players and guests in Brisbane to experience the gala evening in person while Fox Sports will ensure a state-of-the-art experience for players and officials who have returned home.”