Grant Atkins Named Referee After Controversial Performance
In a major shake-up ahead of the 2025 NRL Grand Final, long-serving referee Ashley Klein has been sensationally dropped after a controversial performance in last week’s preliminary final. Grant Atkins has been confirmed to take charge of Sunday’s championship decider.
Klein’s Finals Form Proves Costly
Klein was widely tipped to officiate this year’s decider but came under fire for blowing 18 penalties during Melbourne’s win over Cronulla… A stop-start contest that frustrated fans and coaches alike. Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon questioned the game’s rhythm, saying only 22 minutes of the first half were actually in play.
“Melbourne were the better team, but in a prelim with that many stoppages, what are we doing?” he said.
It was the second time this finals series Klein’s performance was heavily criticised, following his role in the Broncos-Raiders thriller, which also sparked backlash over several key decisions.
Atkins Steps In for Grand Final Debut
Grant Atkins will now take charge of his first Grand Final after delivering a steady performance in Sunday’s clash at Suncorp Stadium. While there was some debate over his decision not to send Liam Martin to the sin bin, the NRL deemed his overall display strong enough to earn the call-up.
Veteran journalist Phil Rothfield reported that Klein had lost the support of senior NRL figures, despite years of backing, and was no longer being considered for the big game.
Klein’s Future in Doubt
Klein has refereed three NRL Grand Finals, including the 2022 and 2024 editions, but this year’s demotion casts doubt on his future in high-stakes matches. With criticism mounting, it remains to be seen whether he’ll return to the game’s biggest stage.
