- Potential cricket blackout
- UK TV deal uncertainty
- England vs. India series
Less than three weeks before the first ball is scheduled to be bowled, England’s Test series against India has yet to secure a home on UK television, potentially resulting in a blackout for cricket enthusiasts.
The five-match tour, which pits the world’s second and third-ranked teams against one another, is the pinnacle of the Test schedule; however, no agreement has been reached as of January 25th, when the first match in Hyderabad commences. TalkSPORT is the owner of the radio rights.
India continues to be the most profitable market for the sport. However, agreements with the Board of Control for Cricket in India have frequently been delayed, as rights distributors are anxious to recoup substantial initial investments.
When England last visited the country for a Test series in 2021, a comparable circumstance transpired, culminating in Channel 4’s eleventh-hour proposal as it unexpectedly re-entered the market.
Broadcasting Challenges and Alternatives
The terrestrial broadcaster wants to feed a captive audience hungry for live sports after the coronavirus lockdowns. However, considering the substantial resources being allocated to Channel 4’s Paralympics coverage this year. It is presumed that there is no intention to pursue a comparable course of action.
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Thus, TNT and Sky Sports remain as potential destinations. Sky is well-positioned to enter the market immediately as the host of all England trips from 1990 to 2017. In contrast, TNT established a presence in the industry under its previous name, BT Sport.
The time slots, commencing at 4 am and concluding before midday, are considered something other than prime time. However, considering the concerted efforts of England and Wales Cricket Board officials, led by Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, to increase the entertainment value and profile of the Test match, it is doubtful that they would attempt to facilitate discussions in this regard. PA Media has contacted the governing body for comment.
An England team-building and training exercise will commence on Thursday when the team flies to the United Arab Emirates.
