Scottish Premiership rugby will return to television thanks to a "groundbreaking" deal between Scottish Rugby and BBC Alba.

A total of 11 matches from the newly-rebranded Arnold Clark Premierships matches, including both men’s and women’s finals, broadcast live, starting with Ayr hosting defending champions Currie Chieftains tomorrow. 

The historic deal marks the first time both men’s and women’s league domestic rugby matches in Scotland will be broadcast on free-to-air television.

Five men’s league matches and three women’s league matches will be covered, plus one of the two men’s play-off matches, and both men’s and women’s finals. 

Games from the women's top tier will also be shown on BBC Alba as part of the dealGames from the women's top tier will also be shown on BBC Alba as part of the deal (Image: Scottish Rugby/SNS)

Scottish Rugby’s director of rugby development Gav Scott said: “This really is a groundbreaking deal. 

"It’s something we hope to build on and want to deliver a successful season to put us in a strong position to discuss a similar deal in the future, which could include more teams.

“We’re looking forward to seeing clubs embrace the challenge and showcase the best of the game. The top of our domestic game is an aspirational place for the best performing young rugby players everywhere."

The first women's game to be shown as part of the deal will see Heriot's host Hillhead Jordanhill on Sunday afternoon. 

BBC Alba commissioning editor Fiona MacKenzie said: “This partnership marks an exciting milestone for Scottish Rugby, ensuring greater visibility and accessibility for both the men and women’s sport.

“At BBC ALBA, we are committed to celebrating Scotland’s sporting talent, and this collaboration allows us to showcase the skill, passion, and dedication behind the game to a wider audience. We look forward to this exciting season ahead as we continue to support the growth of rugby at all levels.”

Below is a list of games that have been chosen for broadcast, but the list is subject to change. 

Arnold Clark Men’s Premiership matches live on BBC Alba

  • Saturday August 31: Ayr v Currie Chieftains; 4.10pm
  • Friday October 4: Watsonians vs Heriot’s; 7.35pm
  • Friday January 10: Hawick vs Currie Chieftains; 7.35pm
  • Friday February 7: Ayr vs Marr, 7.35pm
  • Friday February 28: Musselburgh vs Watsonians, 7.35pm
  • Friday March 28: Premiership play-off, kick-off TBC
  • Saturday April 5: Premiership final, kick-off TBC

Arnold Clark Women’s Premiership matches live on BBC Alba

  • Sunday September 1: Heriot’s v Hillhead Jordanhill;  4.10pm
  • Friday September 27: Watsonians vs Heriot's; 7.35pm 
  • Friday November 29: Stirling County vs Stewartry; 7.35pm
  • Saturday 14 December: Arnold Clark Women’s Premiership Final; kick-off TBC