9.537 million Australians tuned in to Nine’s broadcast of the 2019 Holden State of Origin series.
For the first time since 2005, the Bryden’s Lawyers New South Wales Blues side celebrated back-to-back Origin series victories, breaking their curse of Game III decider losses.
State of Origin Games I, II and III are now the three most watched programs of the year to date. Game I is ranked first with a national average of 3.211 million viewers, Game III is second with 2.881 million viewers, and Origin II is ranked third with 2.808 million.
Following NSW’s series win, Nine’s Director of Sport, Tom Malone, said: “There is no other sporting contest like State of Origin anywhere in the world - professional footballers leaving their club to play for their state of origin in what is the equivalent of three consecutive Grand Finals. It delivers again and again because of the passion and pride across cities, towns and states – and because of the incredible athleticism of the players.”
Nine’s Director of Sales - Sport, Matt Granger said: “The 2019 SOO series has had it all, culminating in last night’s decider. For Nine, it has been fantastic to work with our sponsors, Sony Pictures, Sportsbet, Holden, Stan, McDonalds, Telstra and Harvey Norman. Nine’s exclusive broadcast of SOO has once again showcased it’s unique position and dominance for audiences and partners alike.”
It’s a new era for both Origin sides, with more players on debut than ever before, and new superstars rising through the ranks, like NSW’s James Tedesco who was awarded the Wally Lewis Medal for player of the series.
The NRL on Nine action doesn’t stop here, as a tight race in the top eight develops with only nine rounds remaining until the NRL Finals begin this September.