Opta signs up for World Cup

The Rugby League World Cup 2013 has appointed Opta as Official Tournament Data Supplier.

As part of the agreement Opta and OptaPro services will be used in a variety of ways by broadcasters, print media, across digital platforms and by competing nations at RLWC2013.

RLWC2013 Operations Director Jon Dutton said: “We are delighted to be working with Opta. Their track record as a data supplier for a range of top-level tournaments speaks for itself.

“Rugby League World Cup 2013 will be the global sporting event of 2013, and it is fitting that a world-renowned organisation like Opta will play an integral role at the tournament.”

Opta CEO Aidan Cooney said: “Opta’s strength in supporting rugby clubs and governing bodies in both codes is something we are very proud of. 

“We are delighted to welcome such a prestigious event as Rugby League World Cup 2013 as a partner and we feel the services we provide will service the needs of broadcasters, the competing nations and most importantly fans of Rugby League through what is shaping up to be a fantastic tournament and one of the highlights of the sporting year.”

Opta will be working with host broadcasters BBC and Premier Sports in support of their tournament coverage, while also working alongside the tournament’s global broadcast partners.

Opta will also provide full tournament data and statistics to www.RLWC2013.com and match preview packs to all members of the media.

A team of the week will be selected throughout the tournament with the help of a unique player performance algorithm, while every competing squad will also benefit from the full access to leading performance analysis software.