Rugby Union on outer with networks

[Phantom]

AUSTRALIAN rugby has almost sewn up a substantial broadcast deal with pay television, but it is battling to convince sceptical free-to-air television networks to back the Wallabies at a time when the game is under pressure to broaden its appeal to the viewing public
It is understood Seven, Nine and Ten have expressed little interest in shelling out the $15-20m rugby believes Tri-Nations matches and home Tests involving the Wallabies are worth. The networks are also being offered a highlights package of Super 15 games to sweeten the deal - and give the sport some free-to-air exposure - but officials have not been knocked over in the rush.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news...-1225840217453

[Phantom]

The Nine Network already holds the rights to broadcast the 2011 & 2015 Rugby World Cups alongside Fox Sports but it is understood chief executive David Gyngell has lodged a $10mill bid to broadcast Tri-Nations matches & home Tests featuring the Wallabies as well as a highlights package of Super 15 games in 2011-15.

The offer is less than the $15-$20m rugby wanted for the rights.
Seven is believed to have paid about $17m for the last five-year deal.

NINE NETWORK appears to be in the box seat given Seven is not involved in the bidding and Ten remains frustrated that rugby officials and News Limited rejected a $US40m offer that included one live game of Super 15 game each week. TEN is considered a outside chance

[Sambo]

I would have thought One HD was a good fit.

[batb0y]

Don't see how they can put forward any decent offers while Conroy continues to fuck around with the new rules they will be playing under.