The first Rugby League State of Origin match is on tonight, but if you were hoping to enjoy the game live in glorious HD, you’re going to be sorely disappointed. Channel 9 is only broadcasting the match in standard definition, with HD purists having to wait until 10:30 for the replay of Fox Sports HD.
It was only a year ago that the Nine network was broadcasting the big game in 3D and HD on its GEM channel. But this year, it has decided that standard definition is enough for League fans, despite its own website proclaiming “High definition sport will be seen on GEM until the digital switchover in December 2013.”
There are plenty of discussions around the internet about the lack of a live HD broadcast feed – although certain cinemas will be screening the match, which you can assume is an HD feed – mostly expressing disappointment with the network’s decision.
The game is being broadcast on Fox Sports HD in high-def, but due to licensing won’t be showing the match live. Seems like a pretty poor deal for League fans all around.