Media group Sony Pictures Networks India has signed a long-term rights deal with the Cricket Australia national governing body.
The six-year deal, which covers India and the Indian subcontinent, grants Sony exclusive media rights for all men’s international matches played in Australia. The deal begins with the upcoming Ashes series between Australia and England, and also covers multiple tours by India, visits by Pakistan and South Africa, and the 2021-22 Ashes.
Sony will also hold exclusive broadcast and digital rights for women’s internationals played in Australia, starting with the Ashes later this month. The agreement also includes the Big Bash League and Women’s Big Bash League Twenty20 club competitions.
In addition, Sony will have extensive access to Cricket Australia archive content, as well as original programming from the CA Productions team.
Cricket Australia’s executive general manager of broadcasting, digital media and commercial, Ben Amarfio, said: “Sony is a world class sports broadcaster and has done an exceptional job growing cricket in India with its ground-breaking broadcasting of the IPL (Indian Premier League) and its widespread coverage of international cricket.
“To have our international and domestic cricket carried on such a premium sports platform as SPN is hugely important to the continued growth and promotion of Australian and bi-lateral cricket in the region.”