Sony will Broadcast all India Matches in NZ | The Future
In a move that promises to redefine the landscape of cricket broadcasting in India, Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have joined forces in a monumental seven-year broadcasting agreement. This partnership, set to commence on the 1st of May, 2024, and extend till the 30th of April, 2031, is poised to bring international cricket from the picturesque fields of New Zealand directly to the cricket-loving masses in India.
A Strategic Masterstroke for Indian Viewers
The agreement marks a significant shift in how New Zealand’s cricketing action will be consumed by fans in India. Until now, Amazon Prime Video has been the go-to platform for following New Zealand’s international cricket matches. However, with their contract drawing to a close this summer, SPNI is stepping up to the crease, ready to deliver ball-by-ball action to the Indian audience.
This deal is not just about broadcasting cricket; it’s a testament to the evolving preferences of Indian sports enthusiasts who yearn for comprehensive coverage of international cricket, especially involving the Indian men’s team. The tours of the Indian men’s team to New Zealand for the 2026-27 and 2030-31 seasons underline the deal’s significance, offering a glimpse into the future of cricket viewership in India.
A Partnership Built on Shared Values and Aspirations
Scott Weenink, the Chief Executive of NZC, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the shared ethos between NZC and SPNI. Both organizations prioritize innovation, sustainability, and a consumer-first approach, making this alliance a natural fit. This collaboration is expected to foster a deeper connection between Indian fans and the New Zealand cricket teams, further enriching the cricketing tapestry.
Chris Smith, NZC’s GM Commercial, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the deal’s commercial importance and the potential to tap into the vibrant Indian market. With SPNI’s extensive reach on both linear and digital platforms, the partnership is set to captivate a vast audience, bringing international cricket closer to fans across India.
SPNI: A New Home for Cricket Fans
Rajesh Kaul, SPNI’s Chief Revenue Officer – Distribution and International Business and Head of Sports Business, shared his excitement about the acquisition. By securing the rights to broadcast New Zealand’s international cricket matches, SPNI is expanding its sports portfolio, reinforcing its position as a leading multi-sport arena for Indian viewers.
The agreement ensures that Indian fans will not miss out on any cricketing action from New Zealand, including marquee bilateral series against top cricketing nations. Moreover, the inclusion of crucial series featuring the Indian men’s team in the 2026-27 and 2030-31 seasons adds a cherry on top of this broadcasting deal.
The Future of Cricket Viewing in India
The partnership between SPNI and NZC signifies more than just the transfer of broadcasting rights; it represents a strategic move to cater to the ever-growing appetite for cricket among Indian viewers. With the promise of delivering high-quality cricket content, this alliance is set to redefine the way cricket is watched in India.
The World Test Championship title victory in 2021 was the first of many achievements the Black Caps have had in recent years. The men’s squad won millions of hearts with their energetic performance, finishing runners-up in the last T20 World Cup.
Final Word: What this means for the Sport?
As the baton passes from Amazon Prime Video to SPNI, cricket fans in India can look forward to a new era of cricket broadcasting, marked by accessibility, quality, and an unparalleled viewing experience. This seven-year journey with NZC and SPNI promises to bring the best of international cricket directly into the homes of millions of fans, further solidifying cricket’s position as a beloved sport in India.
In conclusion, the groundbreaking partnership between Sony Pictures Networks India and New Zealand Cricket heralds a new dawn for cricket broadcasting in India.
