The battle for NRL TV rights has taken another intriguing turn.
Pay-TV providers understand the significant implications of losing NRL for their future.
Currently, they broadcast all eight games every weekend, a number that will increase to nine next year with the introduction of the Perth Bears.
Recently, it was revealed that the Nine Network is exploring the possibility of going solo, opting to utilize their subscription service, Stan Sports, in a bid to maintain a distinction between free-to-air and subscription matches going forward.
If successful, this move would result in Nine losing the NRL rights.
Reports suggest that both Seven and Ten are interested in securing the NRL rights as well.
Ten has faced challenges with their sports lineup for some time and is currently associated with Football Australia, while Seven holds rights to both cricket and AFL.
A loss of the NRL would be a devastating setback for Nine, particularly as State of Origin often ranks as the country's most-watched program each year.
The existing TV deal is set to expire at the end of 2027, and the NRL aims to finalize a new agreement in the coming months.