Customers of both companies will benefit from the deal that will increase both pool sizes and the range of bets, which will include Phumelela’s famous Soccer 6 and Sportech’s Classic Pools product Premier 10.

Phumelela Group CEO Rian du Plessis said: “Operating a tote business is all about pool size and here’s a reciprocal deal that that is a win-win for both companies and our customers.

“I believe it will also be the start of other ventures between us. There’s a rugby world cup coming up later this year which will lend itself very well to tote betting involving international partners,” he added.

Ian Penrose, Chief Executive of Sportech commented: “Having completed the acquisition of Scientific Games Racing only a few months ago,  Sportech is now one of the world’s leading pools and tote gaming companies. This important agreement with Phumelela allows us to extend our UK football pools product range into South Africa and further internationalise our customer base.”

Sportech expects the agreement to be fully operational by August and in time for the start of the football season.

> About Phumelela Gold Enterprises (PGE) www.tabonline.co.za
Phumelela Gold Enterprises (PGE) is a joint venture between South African horseracing and tote betting operators Phumelela and Gold Circle. PGE is managed by JSE-listed Phumelela and owns the domestic and international broadcast and information rights to South African horseracing. PGE also sets fixtures for all South African racecourses and owns and manages Tellytrack, South Africa's domestic horseracing TV channel.

> About Sportech PLC www.sportechplc.com
Sportech is one of the leading suppliers and operators of pools/tote betting in the world. Every year over $13 billion in bets are processed. Sportech has a presence in 30 countries and its businesses include:
The Football Pools - world’s oldest football gaming company and the official licensee of English and Scottish Premier League. Over 500,000 customers play The Football Pools every week
Sportech Racing - comprises the former Scientific Games Racing and Autotote Enterprises. Recognised as the leading provider of pools-tote wagering services to the horseracing industry.
Sportech e-Gaming - operates some of the most established brands in the industry including Littlewoods, Vernons and Game On. The wide product range includes online bingo, casino, poker, instant win games and lotteries.