Leeds Rhinos’ free-to-air season opener is a huge opportunity for Super League – Peter Smith

By Peter Smith
Published 10th Feb 2022, 05:59 BST
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SATURDAY’S ROUND one clash between Leeds Rhinos and Warrington Wolves is arguably the most important regular-season fixture in Betfred Super League’s history.

The competition’s very first game, when Paris St Germain beat Sheffield Eagles in front of a massive crowd in the French capital, would be up there, but this weekend offers Super League an opportunity it simply can’t afford to waste.

For the first time, a Super League game will be shown live on free-to-air television, Channel 4 having agreed a deal to broadcast 10 fixtures in each of the next two seasons.

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That opens the competition to a huge new market and massive potential audience who will be seeing rugby league for the first time.

Leeds Rhinos head coach Richard Agar, left, and Warrington Wolves boss Daryl Powell, right, pose with presenter Adam Hills at this week’s Channel 4 launch. Picture: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com.Leeds Rhinos head coach Richard Agar, left, and Warrington Wolves boss Daryl Powell, right, pose with presenter Adam Hills at this week’s Channel 4 launch. Picture: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com.
Leeds Rhinos head coach Richard Agar, left, and Warrington Wolves boss Daryl Powell, right, pose with presenter Adam Hills at this week’s Channel 4 launch. Picture: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com.

Sky have revolutionised the game; it would not be a full-time, summer sport without their influence, but – particularly after 26 years – their coverage is primarily aimed at existing fans.