Under the terms of the deal struck with Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL), Neo will air all 48 tournament matches live from New Zealand to 100 million homes in India. The competition will kick off on September 9 and conclude with the final on October 23.
“Our strategy has always been to showcase the best of global events catering to diverse viewer interest,” said Neo Sports Broadcast chief operating officer Prasana Krishnan. “We endeavour to bring the best of every sport and Rugby World Cup is certainly one of the largest international sporting spectacles. We look forward to an exciting tournament.”
RWCL managing director Mike Miller added: “This announcement represents a significant boost for the growth of the game in Asia. India is one of the world’s major markets with an ever growing appetite for rugby and the International Rugby Board (IRB) is committed to growing the game throughout the country. TV is an important part of that strategy.”
Miller continued: “With the 2019 Rugby World Cup awarded to Japan and the inclusion of Sevens in the Olympic Games, the growth of rugby in Asia is a key strategic goal for the IRB over the coming decade and this growth of coverage in India of our premier event is a major step forward. Neo Sports is widely recognised as a leader in sports broadcasting in India and this association will enhance our ability to take rugby to new audiences throughout the country.”
