Sony Pictures Network has signed a deal with media rights for the 2024-31 cycle at a base price of US 170 Million dollars via an e-auction process.
It was a hike of 70% from the previous cycle where Disney Star had the Asia Cup rights for the US 100 million dollars between 2016-23.
The starting bid for the global media rights package, culminating in both digital and television platforms, was set at 170 million dollars.
All editions of the Men’s and Women’s Asia Cups, Men’s and Women’s u-19 Asia Cups, and the Men’s and Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cups.
“This Media Rights deal is a significant milestone for the Asian Cricket Council and cricket across the region. The Asia Cup continues to be a cornerstone of cricketing excellence, bringing together the best of the region’s talent,” said Jay Shah.
“With Sony Pictures Networks India as our new media partner, we are confident in their ability to deliver world-class coverage and an immersive viewing experience for fans worldwide.”
The Asian Cricket Council proudly announces its partnership with @SonySportsNetwk, granting them exclusive media rights for all ACC Asia Cup tournaments from 2024 to 2031.
Click here for more info: https://t.co/m8tAQwBU12#ACC pic.twitter.com/5MFg24xImF
— AsianCricketCouncil (@ACCMedia1) November 22, 2024
“With Sony’s extensive expertise in the broadcasting industry, we are excited to embark on this new partnership. Sony’s expertise and innovative approach promise to bring a fresh perspective to the coverage of Asian cricket, reaching new audiences and setting new benchmarks.”
“The substantial increase in rights value will enable the ACC to channel significant resources into grassroots programs, infrastructure development, and talent pathways, especially for associate nations.”
“This collaboration will drive the continued growth of cricket across Asia and ensure its vibrant future.”
The ACC stated that the partnership algins with its aim to expand the reach of cricket in Asia. The organisation plans to utilize the resources from this deal to support its member countries in building infrastructure and nurturing talent.
Meanwhile SPNI taking home the media rights to the ACC tournaments, SPNI’s MD & CEO Gaurav Banerjee said, “Congratulations to the ACC for conducting a fair and transparent bidding process for the rights to the ACC tournaments!”
“We are delighted to bring these action-packed tournaments, which will also include India and Pakistan matches, to our viewers for the next 8 years. ACC tournaments have created unforgettable moments and set the stage for the most intense Asian Cricket rivalries.”
“We eagerly look forward to sharing the thrill and spirit of these matches with cricket fans.” Meanwhile, India will hosting the Asia Cup in 2025 after 35 years.
The deal underscores the growing popularity of cricket tournaments managed by the ACC and the increasing value placed on media rights within the sport.
