Source: By Matt Cutler
Rugby World Cup matches will be aired in 3D for the first time later this year after Auckland-based 3DLive was installed as the official 3D broadcaster of the tournament in New Zealand.
3DLive will deliver a special feed of the semi-finals, third-place match and the final, with the action set to be carried in cinemas and at big screen events across the host country and Australia. The 3D feed will also be available to global broadcast partners.
Rugby World Cup Limited chairman Bernard Lapasset hailed the news as “a significant development” for the tournament and said that it illustrated the International Rugby Board’s “commitment to ensuring that rugby fans around the world are able to enjoy the latest broadcast technology”.
“Over four billion television viewers enjoyed the last Rugby World Cup,” he added. “In a sport where innovation and tradition go hand in hand we will give rugby fans a new viewing dimension that will enhance their experience of a tournament that continues to reach out to more men, women and children through all media platforms.”
Sky New Zealand has already said they intend to offer the available matches in 3D. Sky New Zealand CEO John Fellet told ONE Sport: “While we are still working through the technical and operational requirements it is our intention to offer these 3D matches to Sky subscribers.”
3DLive director Ronel Schodt added: “3D technology offers a stunning new perspective to traditional 2D rugby coverage. You really do feel as if you're in the front row of the stadium. It's an experience that's as close as you'll get to being at the live match.” The tournament will run from September 9 to October 23.