Former footballer and now pundit, Gary Neville, has added another string to his bow with the recent news that his production company, Buzz16, has won the contract to produce the rugby output on TNT Sports from the next season.
The Premiership’s deal with BT Sport, which is being rebranded as TNT Sports following a merger with Warner Bros., has long been associated with established producers Sunset and Vine.
However, according to The Rugby Paper, it appears that Buzz16 was able to undercut these producers by a significant seven figures to win the contract.
The news has been met with surprise in the TV industry, with insiders reporting that Buzz16’s bid was considerably lower than that of the long-established Sunset and Vine.
Despite this, it is clear that the quality of Buzz16’s previous work must have impressed the decision-makers at TNT Sports enough to award them the contract.
This move by Neville demonstrates his ability to diversify and expand his business interests beyond football. Buzz16, which he co-founded in 2016, has previously produced documentaries and other sports-related content.
Now, with this new contract, they will be responsible for producing TNT Sports’ rugby output, ensuring that fans can expect top-quality coverage from the start of next season.
5 biggest Premiership transfers as Finn Russell to Bath breaks record
Finn Russell will become the Gallagher Premiership’s most highest-paid player after completing a move from Racing 92 to Bath ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Here, RUCKl takes a look over the most expensive moves.
#5. Max Malins to Bristol Bears
The 25-year-old, who has 14 caps for England, enjoyed a prolific loan spell at Ashton Gate between 2020 and 2021, scoring 18 tries in 19 matches and helping the Bears to a maiden European title and top spot in the Gallagher Premiership.
Last season’s leading try scorer in the Gallagher Premiership with 16, full-back Malins signs a two-year deal at Ashton Gate.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Max is already one of the top players in the Gallagher Premiership and he made a huge impact during his loan spell with us at the Bears. We are all looking forward to welcoming him back into our team again.
Malins added: “I’m delighted to have signed with the Bears. During my loan period, I was made to feel very welcome by the fans, thoroughly enjoyed my rugby and made some good friends. I look forward to returning and hope to carry on where I left off.”
