Disney Star and ZEE entered into a recent sublicense agreement covering the ICC media rights. As a result of which, ZEE will broadcast all cricket matches around the world on their television channel, while Star retains only the digital rights.
The strategic licensing deal, the first of its kind in the history of media sports broadcasting in India, it will be valid for four years from 2024 and Star will continue to show the game on Hotstar, the digital platform.
In a joint statement, media outlets said the International Cricket Council had approved the agreement in principle. The International Cricket Council does not normally comment on commercial matters, but sources in Dubai say he was notified by Criccbuzz. “It is subject to our approval,” said an ICC source.
About the Strategic Agreement Between ZEE and Disney Plus
According to a joint statement, the deal gives ZEE an exclusive access as a television rights holder to ICC men’s events including the coveted ICC Men’s T20 WC (2024, 2026), ICC Men’s Champions Trophy (2025), and ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup (2027). along with the main ICC U-19 event.
“This is a first-of-its-kind partnership in the Indian media & entertainment landscape, and this association with Disney Star reflects our sharp, strategic vision for the sports business in India.”
“As a one-stop television destination for ICC men’s cricket events until 2027, ZEE will leverage the strength of its network to offer a compelling experience for its viewers and a great return on investment for its advertisers,” stated the CEO and MD of Zee, Punit Goenka.
The country manager & president of Disney Star, K Madhavan mentioned, “By securing the IPL television broadcast rights for 2023-27 and now opting to retain only the digital rights for International Cricket Council tournaments for 2024-27, we have in place a balanced and robust cricket offering for our audiences across linear and digital.
Over the years, Disney Star has strengthened the appeal of international cricket in India, enabling it to reach diverse age groups and cultural demographics across all parts of the country. As India’s leading media house, we will continue to do so with our strong portfolio of cricket properties across television and digital.”
A Decision About Airing Women’s Matches Yet to be Made
The joint statement made no mention of media rights for ICC women’s cricket. Cricbuzz has learned that a decision regarding the women’s game is still pending, possibly because the International Cricket Council is an important partner in the women’s game. It may air on both Star and ZEE TV channels. So far, it is understood that ICC approval has only been obtained for men’s competitions.
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