Sony Pictures Television’s media conglomerate, Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), has signed a new deal with New Zealand Cricket (NZC), thus acquiring the exclusive television and digital rights to broadcast and stream all of the latter’s games for the next seven years.
The agreement, officially coming into effect on May 1, 2024, and set to last till April 30, 2031, will see SPNI provide coverage for all matches of the Kiwi men’s and women’s national cricket teams played in New Zealand, within India, and associate territories. The partnership covers the teams’ Test matches, ODIs, and T20Is.
Scott Weenink, Chief Executive, New Zealand Cricket, commented:
“Sony Pictures Networks India is an aspirational, innovative and forward-focussed business that prides itself on being efficient and sustainable in a rapidly changing world. It puts its consumers first and seeks to be the very best it can be – values NZC relates to very strongly.“
Chris Smith, GM Commercial, New Zealand Cricket, said:
“India was a key market for NZC and that the partnership with SPNI was the result of closely aligned interests. It’s fair to say this is a significant commercial agreement. Sony has a large presence in the Indian market on both linear and digital platforms and we’re looking forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership. It’s been a great experience working with the SPNI team while finalising these arrangements.“
NP Singh, Managing Director and CEO, Sony Pictures Networks India, said:
“We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with New Zealand Cricket. New Zealand is renowned for its exceptional sportsmanship and strength; it’s one of the most respected cricket teams globally. It is our privilege to deepen and nurture the bond between this esteemed team and its passionate fan base in India.“
Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer – Distribution & International Business, also Head – Sports Business, Sony Pictures Networks India, added:
“Our constant endeavour has been to add marquee properties to our sports portfolio, making us a global multi-sporting arena for audiences in India. We’re looking forward to showcasing some terrific cricket through our seven-year partnership, including three crucial bilateral series against England, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, in 2024-25, as well two bilateral series featuring the Indian men’s team in 2026-27 and 2030-31, respectively.“
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