In a big move for English rugby union, Gallagher Premiership matches will be broadcast live free-to-air on ITV for the first time, as exclusively revealed by The Rugby Paper.
A deal is thought to be close to being agreed for ITV to show games alongside BT Sport up to five times per season in what would be a huge step forward for fans of the sport.
The Premiership has not had a free-to-air broadcast partner since a four-year deal with Channel 5 came to an end at the conclusion of the 2020/21 season.
Matches such as Harlequins' Big Game at Twickenham and Saracens' annual match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium are likely to be those considered for the coverage alongside the end-of-season play-offs for the title.
ITV could also provide a highlights show, but with no official announcement it is unclear how this coverage would take shape or who would be presenting.
The deal could start as early as the end of January, and with lots of rugby to look forward to between now and the end of the season, fans including those of Sale Sharks would have more of a front-row seat to Premiership action than ever before.
