MUMBAI: The Premier League has sold seven packages of UK live broadcasting rights for the three seasons from 2016/17 - 2018/19 for a record ?5.136 billion.

Following an open and independently scrutinised sales process, the seven packages - five of 28 matches and two of 14 matches - totalling 168 matches were awarded. In each of the next three seasons, Sky Sports will broadcast 126 matches lives across several time-slots, whereas BT Sport will show 42 live games.

Premier League CEO Richard Scudamore said, "Premier League clubs deliver competitive and compelling football to fans in stadiums and on television, driving interest levels to new heights. Last season saw record levels of attendance with the highest top-flight crowds since 1949/50, as well as increased viewing figures across all our UK rights holders.”

“Both Sky Sports and BT Sport have done a tremendous job in bringing the game to the fans as well as providing the revenue that allows clubs to invest in football, facilities, youth development and their communities. It is an endorsement of what the Barclays Premier League delivers that these broadcast partnerships have been extended and enhanced today. We are grateful for the continued belief that Sky Sports and BT Sport have in the Premier League and our clubs, both as a sporting competition and organisations to work with,” he added.