Telstra Premiership TV Deal Signed
New Zealand viewers have been given their ticket to the 2012
Telstra Premiership action with Sky Television today confirming a
one-year extension of its existing broadcast contract.
The agreement is the final key that brings all broadcasting and
new media contracts into alignment for the upcoming broadcast
negotiations while guaranteeing New Zealand Rugby League fans
access to the Telstra Premiership, Harvey Norman State of Origin
and VB Test.
"With the Warriors kicking off the season with a Grand Final
replay at Eden Park on March 4 this is a real boost for New Zealand
fans," Australian Rugby League Commission Chief Executive, Mr David
Gallop, said today.
"Over 700,000 New Zealanders tuned in to watch Kiwi teams in all
three Grand Final day matches last year and we were always
confident that we would be able to reach an interim agreement for
2012.
"We certainly acknowledge the cooperation of Sky Television
Chief Executive, Mr John Fellett, in finalising the one-year
agreement in advance of the more long-term negotiations taking
place.
Sky Television today expressed its commitment to bringing the
skill and excitement of the Telstra Premiership to New Zealand
fans.
"There is enormous support for Rugby League and the Warriors in New
Zealand and we see that audience growing even further in 2012," Mr
Fellett said.
"It has been a sign of good faith on both sides that we have
ensured matches such as the All Stars and Charity Shield have been
guaranteed while these negotiations are completed.
"I think all New Zealand sports fans will be happy to know that
we now have a firm deal for 2012 and the opportunity to negotiate
longer term contracts in the months ahead."