Cable & Wireless Optus announced today that the full 2001 season of the National Rugby League (NRL) will be shown on Optus Television.

Adrian Chamberlain, Managing Director Consumer & Multimedia, Cable & Wireless Optus said after productive negotiations with the NRL and Foxtel, Optus Television was pleased with the outcome.

"This is a very good result for Optus Television and an important step in the rationalisation of the Australian Pay TV industry.

"NRL is an important part of our sports programming and we are pleased to be offering it to our customers again this year," said Mr Chamberlain.

Optus Television will provide rugby league as an Optus service in conjunction with the NRL and Foxtel. Optus will also continue to carry C7 sports programming.

Mike Lattin, Director, Optus Television said the deal allows the company to provide a premium service.

"The beauty of the deal is that it allows us to provide an enhanced service, equal to anything in the market, without incurring production costs. We are confident that our customers will be very happy with the result."

From 16 February 2001, Optus Television will broadcast all NRL regular season games and finals as well as State of Origin and test matches. Classic games and archival footage will also be broadcast. The four-day channel will broadcast from 9am Fridays to midnight Mondays until the season end on 1 October 2001.

"Our aim is to make Optus the provider of choice for information, communication and entertainment services for the Australian home. Today's outcome shows we are serious about achieving that aim," said Mr Chamberlain.

For more information:
Melissa Favero
Cable & Wireless Optus
Tel: 02 9342 5030