The race for the coveted BCCI Media Rights is heating up, with only three contenders left in the battle. As the technical bid submission deadline has passed, it’s clear that Zee, Google, and Amazon have stepped back from the competition. Now, it’s a three-way tussle between Disney-Star, Sony Pictures Network, and Viacom18.
Here’s what you need to know about this high-stakes contest: Disney, Sony, and Viacom18 Vie for BCCI Media Rights
BCCI Media Rights Auction Date
- The BCCI Media Rights Auction is scheduled for August 31 in Mumbai.
- The new media rights deal is expected to fetch nearly Rs 100 Crore per match for the BCCI.
The Final Three
- Disney-Star, Sony Pictures Network, and Viacom18 are the only broadcasters who have submitted their bids for the media rights.
- Notably, Zee, Google, and Amazon withdrew from the race, narrowing it down to these three contenders.
The Zee-Sony Merger Factor
- Zee Entertainment Enterprise, although not submitting a solo bid, could still enter the race in partnership with Sony.
- The Zee-Sony merger is set to be approved by October 1, making them a formidable challenger to Disney and Viacom18.
Digital and TV Separation
- For the first time, bilateral rights will be separated for digital and TV platforms.
- BCCI has set a base price of Rs 45 Crore per game for the next 5 years.
Women’s Bilateral Rights Included
- Broadcasters will also secure women’s bilateral rights for free, emphasizing the progress of women’s cricket.
- This includes India Women’s matches against New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, and West Indies over the next three years.
Digital Rights Price Hike
- After a boost in IPL digital rights, the base price for BCCI Media Rights for digital platforms has been increased to Rs 25 Crore per game.
- TV rights, on the other hand, remain at Rs 20 Crore per game.
Asia Cup and ODI World Cup
- The Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup are expected to set new records in terms of revenue and viewership.
- Team India is gearing up to face arch-rivals Pakistan in the Asia Cup opener on September 2.
Strong Squad for Asia Cup 2023
- India’s squad for the Asia Cup includes Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, and other cricketing stars.
- The team will also participate in the upcoming ODI World Cup.
Traditional Rivals Turned Competitors
- Sony and Star, long-time rivals, are now competitors in the BCCI Media Rights race.
- Viacom18 is the new entrant for TV rights, intensifying the competition.
As the BCCI Media Rights Auction draws closer, the battle among Disney-Star, Sony, and Viacom18 promises to be intense. While Zee’s potential partnership with Sony adds intrigue, this competition showcases the ever-growing significance of media rights in the world of cricket. Cricket fans worldwide will eagerly await the outcome of this bidding war, as it could reshape the landscape of cricket broadcasting for years to come.
Read more: India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023: Epic Showdown in Dambulla – Schedule, Venue, and More!
