FOX Sports & Network Ten to Carry Rugby Matches in Oz

SYDNEY: The Australian Rugby Union has entered into a deal with FOX Sports and free-to-air channel Network Ten for 2016 to 2020.

In addition to remaining the home of rugby in Oz, FOX Sports will become the only destination to watch all of the Qantas Wallabies domestic tests, New Zealand and South Africa domestic tests, the expanded 18-team Asteron Life Super Rugby competition and the Rugby Championship live. As part of the deal, FOX Sports will also remain the exclusive broadcaster of the Buildcorp National Rugby Championship and will continue to broadcast the New Zealand and South Africa domestic competitions, the Mitre 10 Cup and the Absa Currie Cup.

In addition, Network Ten will remain the free-to-air broadcaster in Australia, having finalized an agreement with FOX Sports to simulcast all Qantas Wallabies domestic tests, the Bledisloe Cup, and all matches played by the Qantas Wallabies in the Rugby Championship. For the first time, Network Ten will show a full replay of one Super Rugby match per round each Sunday morning with a start time between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. and an hour-long show of Super Rugby highlights each Monday night. Network Ten will also broadcast full replays of all Asteron Life Super Rugby finals matches featuring an Australian team.

Network Ten CEO Paul Anderson said: “The new agreement strengthens and extends our commitment to rugby and will bring more great matches to fans across the country. Rugby is a vital part of our premium sport content on Network Ten. We are delighted to be expanding our partnership with the Australian Rugby Union and FOX Sports to ensure viewers get the best possible coverage across all television. The Wallabies are on fire at the moment and we’re very excited about being part of their journey and success over the next five years.”