NRL And Sky New Zealand Extend Broadcast Partnership

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ky New Zealand will broadcast all premiership games for the National Rugby League (NRL) and the NRL women’s (NRLW) until 2027 after broadening their partnership with the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC).

The updated agreement will cover both NRL and NRLW regular seasons as well as the finals and grand finals series, and both men’s and women’s state of origin series.

It will also mark the first time New Zealand free-to-air television will broadcast selected games from the ANZAC Round, Magic Round, and the State of Origin.

According to the NRL, the partnership boost “involves a new level of collaboration with both the ARLC and Sky NZ working closely alongside New Zealand Rugby League to co-invest in initiatives to grow rugby league in the region.”

NRL chief executive, Andrew Abdo, said the expanded partnership with Sky New Zealand demonstrated their commitment to the growth of the league.

“Sky’s increased commitment for the duration of this deal will assist in expanding our reach in New Zealand, including coverage of our emerging development competitions,” Abdo said.

“There’s around one million Kiwis who follow rugby league and partnerships like this play a vital role in growing our fan base and ensuring even more coverage of the world’s most entertaining and exciting competitions.

“This deal also highlights the importance of the New Zealand Warriors.

“Despite not having played in Auckland for over a year, Sky were committed to not only expanding their deal, but significantly broadening it.

“I’d like to thank Sky NZ CEO Sophie Moloney and her team for their commitment to rugby league, particularly during the challenges of COVID-19.

“I’m excited to work together to enhance the viewing experience in New Zealand for our fans,” he said.

Sky New Zealand chief executive, Sophie Moloney added the partnership was not only a broadcast deal but a way to develop the future of the game in New Zealand.

“Through our partnership we have committed to working even more closely with NRL and NRLNZ to grow the game of Rugby League in New Zealand,” Moloney said.

“We’ll do everything we can to attract and develop the next generation of League fans and players from grassroots to high performance.

“It’s this which is vital to the future of the game.

“We also commit to making some important matches available free-to-access, that way we can ensure as many Kiwis as possible can enjoy the wonderful game of Rugby League,” she said.