China's 500wan announces internet rights to EPL

China online lottery site, 500wan.com, has announced it has received rights from Tian Sheng TV to broadcast English Premier League games on the internet. Commencing 11 August, 500wan users will be able to access the games online for approximately US$5 per month. "In the beginning of 2007, Tian Sheng TV acquired the rights to broadcast EPL games in China for $50 million. However, since Tian Sheng needs to negotiate with regional cable TV operators to launch the paid soccer channel, fans in many major cities still do not have access to the EPL games," Redline China stated, adding that 500wan’s online broadcasting "will capture audience from these cities and enhance its lottery ticket sales."