Nine CEO Hugh Marks has reaffirmed their commitment to rugby league and the NRL, praising the efforts of ARLC commissioner Peter Vlandys during negotiations.
The network labelled explosive allegations towards the organisation and CEO Todd Greenberg at the start of April, claiming they are 'mismanaging' the game and being left out of coronavirus discussions.
It was reported that it was Channel 9’s preference to cancel the current season as they attempted to renegotiate the current broadcast deal.
However, Marks has told 2GB that they are still committed to broadcasting the sport and were eager to ensure that their investment was being adequately distributed back into club footy.
“Rugby league restarting is one of those things we need to make sure happens as part of getting through this and getting out the other side into a recovery,” Marks told The Ray Hadley Morning Show.
“Those discussions are ongoing.
“One thing I want to see come out of this is that investment goes back into club footy.
"It’s the tribalism of rugby league that is its greatest strength.
"Investment in clubs, players and those communities has been underdone for some years and again that’s something I’m agitating to make sure is part of the recovery so we can see a sport that has a great long-term future that warrants our investment in it.”
Channel Nine has been involved with tense discussions with Vlandys and Foxtel boss Patrick Delaney as they attempt to ensure that the amended schedule will satisfy all stakeholders.
The work of Vlandys during this period left a lasting impression on Marks, who was 'very impressed' with his handling of the issues.
“Very impressed,” Marks said.
“He’s a man who wants to get things done and he’s a man who is very good at cutting through a lot of noise, simplifying the issues at hand and looking for the right outcomes.
“I’m very impressed with what I’ve had to do with him so far.”