The Nix or AFC would still need to undertake pre season tours of Aussie, playing some ALM clubs in valuable (likely closed door) warmups. Say Sept-Oct close to the traditional ALM start date.
Playing Welly Olympic and Auckland City (perhaps majorly weakened from 2025) - even with a trophy at state - ain't alone gonna be sufficient prep for season 2026/27.
Playing Welly Olympic and Auckland City (perhaps majorly weakened from 2025) - even with a trophy at state - ain't alone gonna be sufficient prep for season 2026/27.