Rugby league should never forget the power of free-to-air TV

If the sport wants a mainstream audience, it has to prioritise its relationship with the BBC and coverage of the England teamBy Gavin Willacy for No Helmets RequiredDoes rugby league take the BBC for granted? And are the RFL flogging a dead horse with the Challenge Cup? I left Parliament mulling over those questions after seeing a fascinating presentation by three of BBC Sport’s leading figures last week.The Beeb showed 57 hours of league this year and broadcast 50 live commentaries on national radio. They account for 78% of all rugby league viewing on TV, with over seven million people watching more than 15 minutes of rugby league on BBC this year compared to two million on Sky. They are essential to the game retaining its status in the mainstream media. Related: This is an exciting new era for the England rugby league team Continue readingread full article

Source: TheGuardian

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