I think this shows that the Big Bash juggernaut (combined with the big NRL/AFL deals) is making it really hard for other sports to get a seat at the FTA table. There just isn't enough cash to go around.
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I think thats very true, I have followed the A-League negotiations in detail with a view to whats possible for rugby. Its scary outside as you mentioned cricket, AFL, NRL and I would add tennis and super V8's what other codes will have to do to get a decent deal.
Given the current Super Rugby re-negotiation with Fox my fear is it could get ugly.
As you have correctly pointed out about the size of the A-League deal.
The following is from last week and when the three week finals are added will no doubt increase and our recent history of ratings falling off towards the latter part of the Super Rugby season the following is not good reading. Its from Wookie's site. Remember it does not include this weeks ratings.
Cumulative Updates
- The A-league 2016-17 H&A Season on Fox has finished up 11% to 8.545 million at an average of 64,000 per game.
- Highest rating A-league matches – #1 R1 Syd/WS derby 142k. #2 R2 – Vic v City 132k #3 R1 – Roar v City 129k. (Rec 188k Syd derby R2 2014-15)
- 2016-17 HAL Fri night metro FTA ave up 18% to 64k (1/3rd of friday nights no FTA rating reported). Roar v Victory R1 top with 118k.
Super Rugby