Sky TV has confirmed rumours it is angling to seize the Rugby World Cup back from Spark Sport.
"We are in advanced discussions with World Rugby to negotiate a wide-ranging rights deal that would secure World Rugby's premium competitions - including Rugby World Cups - for our customers over multiple years," Sky chief corporate affairs officer Chris Major told the Herald.
"The discussions include potential changes for RugbyPass, which would support World Rugby's strategy to engage fans and grow the global game.
"It would be inappropriate to comment on the details until the terms of a binding agreement are finalised."
On May 25, the Herald's Gregor Paul broke the news that Sky was working with TVNZ to mount a bid for the 2023 Mens' Rugby World Cup, as Spark Sport realigned with Discovery - with whom it will partner for the Womens' Rugby World Cup later this year.