Pay-television broadcaster Sky New Zealand has agreed an extension to its rights deal with the National Rugby League, the top rugby league competition in Australia.
The agreement, which was concluded in the hours before before the start of the 2013 season today (Thursday), will run for five years, from 2013 to 2017.
The new deal comprises live rights to all matches featuring New Zealand team the Warriors, as well as the Premiership finals and grand final plus the annual State of Origin series between Queensland and New South Wales and the Rugby League All Stars game.
“The game in New Zealand is the strongest it has ever been at all levels and we are thrilled that we have agreed to a long-term partnership to bring the best rugby league competition in the world to fans across New Zealand,” NRL general manager of strategic projects, Shane Mattiske, said. “We know how much it means to fans in New Zealand to be able to watch rugby league and this partnership offers the most comprehensive coverage ever provided.”
The late conclusion of the new deal was announced after last season’s one-year agreement between Sky and the NRL was sealed just two days before the start of the campaign.