Black Clash Dominates Free-to-Air Sports Ratings with Huge Viewer Numbers

Nearly a million New Zealanders tuned in to this year’s Black Clash, with the annual cricket‑versus‑rugby exhibition once again topping free‑to‑air sports ratings. The event drew a capacity crowd to Bay Oval on Saturday and reached 928,300 viewers on TVNZ 1 — making it the most‑watched free‑to‑air sporting event of the past year. TVNZ head of sports, events, and partnerships Melodie Robinson said the numbers show the clash’s continued popularity. "Black Clash has cemented itself as a standout fixture of the New Zealand summer. Watching some of our biggest rugby and cricket stars go head‑to‑head in such a fun yet fiercely competitive setting clearly connects with viewers." Duco Events’ event director Carlena Limmer said the strong ratings reflect how well the format resonates with fans. "The blend of sportainment, nostalgia, competition and camaraderie has clearly struck a chord. The Bay Oval crowd brought incredible energy." Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale said the packed venue and close finish made for "an electric night", and showcased the city and Bay Oval "at its absolute best" to an audience approaching one million. "Experiencing this year’s event firsthand was extraordinary - a packed crowd, sporting legends on both sides, and a nail-biting finish made for an electric night." The Black Clash will return in 2027.