BBC Wales has secured the rights to Principality Premiership Rugby for the coming season.

The top-flight, which features Colwyn Bay-based side RGC, will broadcast on Friday nights in HD on BBC Two Wales and will allow fans to follow the league on free-to-air television throughout the season.

Geoff Williams, Head of Sport at BBC Cymru Wales, said: “Friday night rugby on the BBC has been a staple part of the sporting diet in Wales for many years, and armchair rugby fans will be delighted to see it continue. By securing these rights, fans will be able to continue to watch free-to-air rugby every week on BBC Cymru Wales as well the Scrum V highlights programme on Sunday evenings.

“The revamped Premiership will be an exciting competition that’s rooted in communities across Wales, and it has a strong following amongst rugby fans. This season, there is certain to be a significant amount of jeopardy and rivalry among the sides vying to top the league and BBC Wales will be there to bring our audiences all the drama from the touchline.”

The new agreement will see live Premiership rugby games broadcast regularly on BBC Wales on Friday nights, as well as festive derby matches on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Its rugby magazine programme Scrum V will continue to be broadcast regularly on Sunday evenings, and the coverage will kick-off with Ebbw Vale’s home clash with Aberavon on September 7.

Geraint John, Welsh Rugby Union head of performance, added: “This a great opportunity for all of the Premiership clubs to demonstrate their quality at the top end of club rugby in Wales.

“Collectively there is a great history running through the clubs and with a lot of young aspiring players stepping up to the top end of club rugby where they will meet players who have already established themselves in the game, the chance to play in front of a new televised audience is an exciting prospect for all concerned.”