Challenge Cup time on the move

The Rugby Football League has confirmed the Challenge Cup Final is to switch to August, with the BBC announcing a new three-year coverage deal. The contract runs from 2005-2007 and follows on from the current deal.

The final moves from May to the end of the summer to coincide with the climax of the Super League season.

The BBC has also signed a four-year deal with the RFL that will include highlights of the new Tri-Nations series and Super League action.

November's Tri-Nations tournament will see Great Britain, Australia and New Zealand play each in a round-robin format.

There are also plans to televise the climax of the National League season on BBC's regional services in the north.

"The BBC is delighted with this new deal which builds on years of partnership between the BBC and the RFL, taking that relationship to a new level," said BBC's Director of Sport, Peter Salmon, said:

"The Rugby League Challenge Cup is an authentic national moment in the British sporting calendar.

"With the final restored as an end-of-season event, and a new long-term commitment to Tri Nations and Super League highlights, the BBC intends to use its unrivalled reach to bring the best of rugby league to every home in the UK."