14 Apr 2009

SANZAR officials worried about TV ratings

8:45 am on 14 April 2009

SANZAR rugby officials are worried that falling Super 14 television ratings and attendances could affect their bargaining power when they renegotiate their deal later this year.

The current five-year deal negotiated by South Africa, New Zealand and Australia's joint commercial venture is worth more than $500 million and expires at the end of this year.

But despite strong ratings and gates last year, this year's low-key Super 14 competition has seen a significant drop in attendances and viewing figures on both sides of the Tasman.

Under the SANZAR broadcasting deal, countries must have competition options for Super rugby and the Tri Nations on the table by the end of June.