Sky Sports implements player mics for more immersive rugby union broadcasts
Sky Sports is adding another dimension to its rugby union coverage with the use of a player mic to catch all the on the field conversations.
With what the broadcaster claims is the first use of the tech in rugby in the Northern Hemisphere Sky Sports will immerse viewers in the drama during the Scarlets and Ulster at Parc y Scarlets fixture on Saturday.
To pick up the audio during the match a microphone will be attached to Ulster centre Stuart McCloskey.
Gus Williamson, executive producer of rugby union, said: “We are always looking for new ways to give our viewers the best rugby experience possible and I’m extremely excited about what Player Mic will offer. This wouldn’t have been possible today without the support of the team at Ulster Rugby who have been fantastic throughout.
“Their backing means we can now take fans right into the heart of the game as we get up close and personal with the players, and listen in on what happens out on the field.”
The move is the latest in Sky Sports long line of rugby broadcasting innovations including the rail cam, ref cam, sky cart and hawkeye smart replay.