The international sevens rugby series enjoyed record attendance and broadcast figures in the past season, the International Rugby Board says.
At a time when the sport, including tests matches, is generally experiencing falling attendances, the sevens version appears to be attracting new fans.
The IRB said a new
record was set for both attendance and broadcast.
The 2006-07 series comprised tournaments in Dubai, South Africa, New Zealand, United States, Hong Kong, Australia, England and Scotland and appeared the most competitive to date, with New Zealand winning.
"It was televised by 30 international broadcasters in 11 different languages and reached 213 million homes (up 24 million on 2005-06) in 137 countries (up 1), and had a potential global cumulative reach of over 530 million (up 45 million)," the IRB said in a statement.
"Live coverage increased dramatically during the season with 911 hours of action (up 72 per cent).
"Backing up these record figures were yet more increased attendance figures. The eight tournament locations, including the three new series venues in Adelaide, San Diego and Edinburgh, garnered a record cumulative attendance of over 250,000.
"The opening three tournaments in Dubai (64,000), South Africa (25,000) and New Zealand (70,000) were sellouts, as was Hong Kong (40,000), while England reported an increased attendance (33,000). San Diego, the first of the new venues, attracted 29,000 fans with Adelaide (25,000) and Edinburgh (30,000) also recording strong attendances."
Wellington's Westpac Stadium has seen sellout crowds over last four tournaments at least.
Programme for the 2007-08 season -
Dubai November 30-December 1, South Africa December 7-8, New Zealand February 1-2, United States February 9-10, Hong Kong March 28-30, Australia April 5-6, England May 24-25, Scotland May 31-June 1.
- NZPA
