The NRL's biggest drawing clubs are leading a push for the code to regain control of scheduling from broadcasters in a bid to stem a 7 per cent decline in crowds so far this season.

South Sydney and Canterbury officials had been hoping for a crowd of 50,000 for their round 24 grand final rematch at ANZ Stadium if the match was played on a Sunday afternoon but now anticipate about half that number attending as Nine wants to televise it on a Thursday or Friday night.

Crowd puller: The Good Friday afternoon match between the Bulldogs and Rabbitohs drew a crowd of 40,523. Credit:Getty Images

Brisbane officials are also disappointed about the likelihood of hosting St George Illawarra on the previous Thursday night, rather than a Friday night or Sunday afternoon when more families are able to attend the game.

Midway through the current $1 billion broadcast deal with Nine and Fox Sports, there is clear evidence that the interests of the television networks conflict with those of the clubs.