Mumbai, Sep 17 (IANS): Sony Pictures Networks India Private Limited (SPN) has acquired the exclusive media rights for Rugby World Cup 2019 from Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL). The tournament will be held in Japan from September 20 to November 2 and will be telecast in India live and exclusive on SONY TEN 2 channels and will be livestreamed on SPNs premium video on demand (VOD) service, SonyLIV.

The Rugby World Cup is the world's most prestigious rugby tournament and sees participation from the top rugby teams in the world. Held every four years, the 2019 edition of the Rugby World Cup is the ninth edition of the tournament and will see 20 teams playing 48 matches across 12 venues in Japan for the coveted Webb Ellis Cup.

Participating nations include New Zealand, Ireland, England, Wales, South Africa, Australia, Scotland, France, Fiji and Argentina amongst others.

Commenting on the development, Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer, Distribution and Head - Sports Business, Sony Pictures Networks India Private Limited, said: "It is our endeavour to showcase marquee international events to our viewers and Rugby World Cup 2019 is the most prestigious rugby tournament in the world. Sony Pictures Networks India was the official broadcaster of the Rugby World Cup 2015 and we received a very encouraging response from viewers across the country."

"Rugby as a sport is extremely engaging to watch and has a dedicated following in India which makes it the perfect addition to our sports offerings," he added.

The terms of the deal include exclusive television and digital rights across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives and exclusive pay television and digital rights for Sri Lanka.