By Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has secured exclusive rights to broadcast and stream all New Zealand Cricket (NZC) home series in India and associated territories for the next seven years.
The agreement, effective from 1 May 2024 to 30 April 2031, encompasses broadcasting and digital-streaming rights for all bilateral ties in New Zealand, including India’s tours during the 2026-27 and 2030-31 seasons. This includes coverage of bilateral Test matches, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) hosted in New Zealand throughout the contractual period.
Rajesh Kaul, SPNI’s Chief Revenue Officer-Distribution & International Business and Head of Sports Business, emphasized the network’s commitment to enriching its sports portfolio, stating, “Our constant endeavour has been to add marquee properties to our sports portfolio, making us a global multi-sporting arena for audiences in India.”
Scott Weenink, Chief Executive of New Zealand Cricket, highlighted the significance of this partnership in expanding NZC’s reach. He remarked, “India is a significant market for us… So, it’s very important to New Zealand to ensure that our games are being broadcast to India.”
Furthermore, Chris Smith, NZC’s GM Commercial, stressed the importance of tapping into the high-potential Indian market. He expressed, “It’s fair to say this is a significant commercial agreement… We’re looking forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership.”
Under the terms of the deal, SPNI will broadcast NZC matches on its linear channels as well as its digital streaming platform, Sony LIV. The partnership is expected to drive significant fan engagement, with adjusted match timings tailored to accommodate Indian audiences.
“We expect that [the deal] will drive significant fan engagement… The Indian Test matches will be starting as late as 11:30 am in New Zealand time… to help with the Indian timezone,” highlighted Weenink.
SPNI’s digital rights in India will be co-exclusive with Amazon Prime for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons. This partnership marks a significant move for SPNI, further solidifying its position as a leading broadcaster of global sporting events in India.
Amidst the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting, SPNI continues to bolster its sports content offerings, aiming to provide diverse and engaging experiences for sports enthusiasts across the country. With the addition of NZC rights to its portfolio, SPNI reaffirms its commitment to delivering top-quality cricketing action to Indian audiences for years to come.
