Why you should be excited about the NRL's new online deal

With unprecedented live access to games, players and club content, all straight to your mobile or tablet, there's plenty for fans to get excited about in the NRL's new digital rights deal.

Telstra and the ARLC yesterday agreed to a new five-year digital media and sponsorship agreement that means fans will see inside rugby league like never before.

To start, there's no more excuses for missing a Sea Eagles game, with rugby league fans able to watch the every game of the 2013 season live-to-air on phones and tablets via the official NRL App on iPhone and Android, no matter who your mobile carrier is.

This subscription service will see Channel 9 games simulcast and Fox Sports games sent out live.

But even if you don't sign up for the full service, you'll still get plenty of extra content. Perhaps the most exciting will be instant access to highlights and instant replays of big hits and tries.

No more simply checking a score card while you're out and about. Watch all the key moments of the match as they unfold, with a full highlights video straight after every match. Want to see a try from a different angle? You'll be able to cycle between alternative camera during broadcasts as well!

And it doesn't stop when the full time whistle blows. Sea Eagles fans will be able to see into the inner workings of the club like they never have before. In addition to our own digital staff, a new full-time NRL Digital Media production unit will be created to help provide fans with the best content in Australian sport.

Player interviews, press conferences, training videos, team lists, injury reports and even more behind-the-scenes insights will be available right in the palm of your hand.

Or get down to the nitty gritty with much deeper dedicated game and player stats for all the NRL number crunchers.

Android users will be happy to know they won't be missing out either, with apps coming to both platforms. Starting with NRL.com, rugby league's digital platforms will be rebuilt from the ground up as well, so you can expect regular updates to rugby league websites and apps to make sure you have the most efficient and interactive access to the latest content.

The new digital rights deal will change the face of rugby league, keeping fans at the forefront. Passionate supporters can expect unprecedented access while we'll also see rugby league reach a much wider audience, which can only strengthen the game we love.