The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has reached an agreement with media rights distributor IMG, for the radio rights to broadcast select matches of the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
The agreement includes the broadcast of four matches featuring the national rugby team, the Springboks, as well as two semi-finals and the final match.
SABC radio stations RSG and Radio 2000 will carry live commentary, whilst Umhlobo Wenene will provide reports during the match.
The SABC’s Acting Chief Operations Officer (ACOO), Ms Sylvia Tladi states: “The public broadcaster is aware of the fact that rugby is a loved sport in our country. We are pleased that we were able to negotiate and get to a point where, in the interest of the public and in fulfilling our mandate, the SABC would be able to provide the South African public, an opportunity to follow the Springboks on radio, as they fight to claim the title of being rugby world champions in Japan. Although there will be a loss, the organisation ensured that it was minimal, as the public broadcaster needed to find middle ground in fulfilling its public mandate, whilst looking at the financial sustainability of the corporation.”
Mthembu adds that “The SABC is pleased to further announce that Umhlobo Wenene will also be carrying full commentary of the selected matches for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.”
The SABC radio will broadcast live the Springboks’ first World Cup game, against rivals the All Blacks. Listeners of Radio 2000, Umhlobo Wenene, and RSG will be able to tune in from 11.45 Saturday morning.
Watch video below for a preview of the game.
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