Rugby World Cup: Kodwa urges SABC and SuperSport to find coverage solution

Rugby World Cup: Kodwa urges SABC and SuperSport to find coverage solutionSocial media users were shocked by Sports Minister Kodwa after he suggested that citizens might listen to the Rugby World Cup on the radio.

by Precious Simpasa

07-09-2023 10:16

in Celeb News

The Sports Minister is concerned about millions of South Africans who potentially won't be able to watch the Rugby World Cup due to SuperSport's exclusive broadcast rights. Image: Intstagram via @rugbyworldcup

and @bnnsouthafrica

In a twist that has left South African rugby fans both baffled and amused, Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa has ignited a social media storm by suggesting that the upcoming Rugby World Cup should be broadcast on the radio, while SuperSport has snagged exclusive TV rights to all the thrilling action on the field.

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RUGBY WORLD CUP 2023 BROADCASTING RIGHTS X, as always, was swift to respond. Jabulani Macdonald, known for his lightning wit, couldn't resist taking a humorous jab at the situation:

Basically the Minister of Sports,Arts and Culture expects people to listen to the Rugby World Cup on radio and no word about broadcasting the games live on SABC TV ? is not make sure pic.twitter.com/ARHcZumJ21

Jabulani Macdonald (@Jabu_Macdonald) September 6, 2023

It seems South Africans have been left in stitches by the unexpected turn of events. The uproar began when SuperSport secured exclusive rights to broadcast all matches of the highly anticipated 2023 Rugby World Cup.

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SABC STRANDED? This move effectively sidelined the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), leaving many fans in disbelief. In response to this uproar, Minister Kodwa stepped onto the scene, calling for a resolution to ensure that millions of South Africans can witness the Rugby World Cup magic.

He emphasized the importance of the public broadcaster, SABC, fulfilling its mandate to cover sports of national interest and highlighted the role of rugby in nation-building and social cohesion.

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ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE MASSES Gary Rathbone, Founder of Sportscape Media and former SABC Sports General Manager, expressed his apprehension about the exclusivity of SuperSport's deal. He raised a vital point that goes beyond price tags - accessibility.

While MultiChoice, SuperSport's parent company, might have deep pockets, the SABC relies on advertising revenue, making it challenging to recover the costs associated with securing the rights.

Rathbone underscored that it's not just about getting a bargain deal but ensuring that South Africa's national team games remain accessible to all.

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RUGBY WORLD CUP KICK-OFF The 2023 Rugby World Cup is set to kick off in France from Friday, September 8th, to Saturday, October 28th. With the Springboks, South Africa's three-time world champions, ready to make their mark, the anticipation is palpable.

As the Rugby World Cup excitement builds, South Africans find themselves caught in a humorous tug-of-war between the Minister's radio vision and SuperSport's exclusive TV rights. The clash of opinions has left the nation divided, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome.

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Will radio broadcasts score a try with the masses, or will SuperSport continue to dominate the scrum? Only time will tell. One thing is certain - this Rugby World Cup promises to be a game-changer, both on and off the field.

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