Australian commercial broadcaster Channel Nine and pay-television broadcaster Fox Sports have announced that they would consider supporting a summer rugby league ‘nines’ competition, according to the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper.
The Australian National Rugby League is considering introducing an out-of-season nine-a-side series to enhance the league's global presence and aid the development of younger players.
“We’re happy to support the NRL in any way to grow the game,” Nine chief executive David Gyngell said. “Out-of-season sport historically doesn’t work but we’re interested in trying.”
Gary Burns, head of channels at Fox Sports, added: “We’re interested in anything the NRL suggests – at least to the point of investigating feasibility.”