London, Feb 11 (IANS): TV networks Sky and BT bought Premier League's live broadcasting rights for a record 5.136 billion pounds to telecast 168 matches in Britain for three seasons from 2016-17 to 2018-19.

The figure, which was announced after concluding the sales process here Tuesday, represents a 70 percent increase in Sky and BT's current three billion pounds contract reached in 2012, reports Xinhua.

Under the new deal, football matches will be shown live at an average cost of 10.2 million pounds per match. Sky paid 4.176 billion pounds for 126 matches per season, including the first Friday evening games and both Sunday packages. BT paid 960 million pounds for 42 games per season, four more than its current deal.

"Premier League clubs deliver competitive and compelling football to fans in stadiums and on television, driving interest levels to new heights. Both Sky Sports and BT Sport have done a tremendous job in bringing the game to the fans as well as providing the revenue that allows clubs to invest in football, facilities, youth development and their communities," Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore said.

"It is an endorsement of what the Premier League delivers that these broadcast partnerships have been extended and enhanced today."