The Saracens v Northampton Saints Gallagher Premiership Rugby match was broadcast using cutting-edge technology

Matchday cameras were connected via a standalone private 5G network BT had installed at the Stone X Stadium

The Saracens v Northampton Saints Gallagher Premiership Rugby match on Saturday was broadcast using 5G and cloud-based technology, through a combination of BT companies (BT Media & Broadcast; BT Sport; and EE).

The broadcast utilised BT Media & Broadcast’s new Vena network, which combines private 5G and cloud to provide secure broadcast-grade infrastructure.

A number of matchday cameras were connected via a standalone private 5G network installed at Saracens’ StoneX Stadium. The use of 5G (compared to RF) enables a large range of cameras in a wide range of locations to be used in broadcast, opening up new creative and operational benefits.  

As well as the use of 5G, BT Media & Broadcast demoed cloud production during the game.

Faisal Mahomed, director of BT Media & Broadcast, said: “These pioneering collaborations demonstrate how our new smart broadcast network, Vena, along with private 5G and cloud technology, can make a huge difference to the way broadcasters produce coverage of rugby, football and other sports, and can provide a number of creative, sustainable and operational benefits. BT continues to innovate and harness the power of 5G and cloud production to introduce new products and services for our customers and partners.”

Jamie Hindhaugh, head of BT Sport, added: “We are proud of our role in the track record of recent broadcast innovations across BT. This weekend’s innovations at Saracens continue to highlight the key role 5G will play in the future of sports television.”