ARU set to announce big new TV deal

The Australian Rugby Union is poised to cap a big two months by announcing a television deal reportedly worth about $250 million.

A press conference will be held in Sydney on Thursday morning when it’s expected ARU chief executive Bill Pulver will reveal the details of the five-year deal starting from 2016.

It will be a timely boost for the code in Australia given the financial struggles in recent years and will be unveiled just seven weeks after the Wallabies enjoyed a surprise run all the way to the Rugby World Cup final in London.

News reports on Wednesday stated the new contract will mark a 100 per cent increase for the ARU from the current TV deal, with all Super Rugby matches in an expanded 18-team competition to be shown live on Fox Sports, as will all Wallabies Tests.

It’s believed Channel Ten, who currently broadcasts domestic Wallabies Test matches, will also have replay rights for one Super Rugby match on Sunday morning each week in a minor free-to-air presence.

Stay up to date with the latest sports news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest sporting news!