Sony Pictures Networks India (SPN) has announced the renewal of its exclusive television and digital rights partnership with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for another six years, until 2028, thereby enhancing the already existing business relationship between the two entities.
According to the corporation, the agreement includes the transmission of England's matches in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Myanmar, and the Maldives. Sony will have exclusive rights to broadcast all England senior men's and women's international matches and domestic competitions on its sports channels and OTT platform SonyLIV as a result of the renewal.
“We're delighted to extend this partnership for another six years, broadcasting England men's and women's home international cricket to a passionate global audience. This partnership also enables us to bring the men's county game to the biggest cricket audience in the world.”
“After the thrilling conclusion of the England v India men's Test series last month, there is so much fantastic cricket to look forward to over the coming years, including the women's series between England and India next month. I am sure fans will continue to be entertained and enthralled by the contests between our two countries,” Clare Connor, Interim CEO, ECB said.
Sony will get access to around 250 days of international men's cricket, including the 5-match Test series and limited-overs series between England and India, as well as the women's series between the two countries.
The Test series between England and India was drawn at 2-2, while India won the T20I and ODI series by scores of 2-1 and 2-1, respectively, during India's recent trip of England.
“SPN has had an outstanding association with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), that has enabled us to bring premiere sporting content to our viewers who enjoy cricket. The extension of the broadcast partnership is a testament to our strong portfolio of sports content in the country, which we have successfully built and nurtured over the years.”
In addition to The Ashes in England, the contract includes matches against Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa, among others. Sony also owns the rights to broadcast domestic tournaments including as the LV=Insurance County Championship, Vitality T20 Blast, and Royal London One-Day Cup.
