Media Release:
Friday, 13 July 2001
Sky And NRL Sign Five Year
Rugby League Television
Rights Contract
The National Rugby League and SKY Television New Zealand today announced a five-year agreement to televise Telstra
Premiership matches, the State of Origin Series and Australian based Test matches.
Commencing in 2002, the new agreement ensures that New Zealand Rugby League fans will continue to have the opportunity,
through SKY’s multi-channel digital environment, to see live coverage of every Telstra Premiership game throughout the
season.
The coverage will include the Telstra Premiership Grand Final on September 30.
“This is a tremendous vote of confidence in the Telstra Premiership and we are excited to be going forward with SKY,”
said David Moffett, Chief Executive, NRL.
“The Telstra Premiership produces the most exciting professional sporting competition either side of the Tasman and SKY
has a tremendous record in bringing that excitement to viewers in an equally professional way.”
SKY’s Chief Executive, John Fellet said, “As one of SKY’s foundation sports rugby league is an essential part of SKY’s
sports programming line-up – the Telstra Premiership will continue our commitment to sports fans, bringing world class
Rugby League coverage to our subscribers.”
New Zealand Warriors fans can be reassured that all their teams games, both home and away, will be broadcast live and
uninterrupted on SKY.
The five-year agreement allows SKY to now negotiate a free to air partnership going forward, whilst recognising the
enormous reach that Sky already has within New Zealand.
-End-