The National Rugby has today announced that 2GB has secured the exclusive commercial radio rights for Telstra Premiership and ARL matches for a further three seasons.
The ABC has again secured rights to broadcast matches with Austereo’s Triple M retaining the commercial rights to Monday Night Football.
The agreements guarantee Rugby League will have a voice on the country’s most influential commercial network through 2GB, national and international coverage through the ABC and FM exposure through Triple M.
2GB’s Continuous Call team will broadcast over fifteen hours of Rugby League commentary across Friday, Saturday and Sunday each week.
The ABC, whose digital network will now take Rugby League to Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth, will broadcast matches on Friday, Saturday, Saturday evening and selected Monday night matches (broadcasts restricted to matches involving regional teams and to be transmitted only within those regions).
Triple M has unveiled plans to expand its commercial Monday night coverage, increasing its overall commitment to Rugby League.
All broadcasts will be accessible through www.nrl.com in 2010.
“The success of the Continuous Call team speaks for itself,” National Rugby League Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, said today.
“The NRL Partnership is pleased to be continuing the relationship – one which has seen substantial growth in the commercial value of Rugby League.
“While 2GB enjoys a large network audience in its own right, the combination of it and the ABC ensures that fans have both choice and a massive reach that will increase with the news that all broadcasts will now be available through nrl.com in 2010.
“Triple M has added an important element through FM audiences and the game’s profile across the three networks remains incredibly strong.”