Channel Seven today confirmed it will show NFL games featuring NRL convert Jarryd Hayne live on its 7mate network.
In a huge shot in the arm for American football fans and the game itself in Australia, Seven will broadcast three consecutive NFL games on Sunday, ending with the blockbuster NFL Sunday Night Football, all coming in live to Australia on 7mate on Monday.
Seven will also broadcast live the Super Bowl, NFL Playoffs, traditional Kick-off game and Thanksgiving NFL matches.
Yesterday, B&T reported of the unprecedented local interest in Hayne’s switch and San Francisco contract. Many news outlets have led with or front covered the story over the previous days.
It has been reported that Hayne’s “number 38” jersey is already the number one selling shirt on the NFL’s online store.
Sports marketing and sponsorship specialist, Jack Watts from Bastion EBA, told B&T that interest in Hayne, the 49ers and the merchandise will “increase 1000-fold” in Australia.
Watts added: “This will give the game a huge shot in the arm in Australia. I think the Holy Grail now will be to bring an American football game to Australia. If that happens, then who knows how things will take off?”
In early 2014, Sydney’s SCG hosted a baseball game between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the LA Dodgers. Although its eventual success was thought to be mixed.
