Sat Nov 23 08:23:20 UTC 2024: ## Sony Pictures Networks India Wins Eight-Year Asian Cricket Council Broadcast Rights
**Mumbai, India –** Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has secured the exclusive broadcasting rights for all Asian Cricket Council (ACC) tournaments for the next eight years, marking a significant expansion of its sports portfolio. The deal, reportedly worth $170 million, represents a 70% increase in rights value compared to the previous contract.
The comprehensive agreement covers all Men’s and Women’s Asia Cups, as well as Under-19 and Emerging Teams Asia Cups. This includes high-profile matches featuring cricketing rivals India and Pakistan, further boosting the value and appeal of the deal.
The ACC stated the increased revenue will be invested in grassroots development, infrastructure improvements, and talent pathways, particularly benefiting associate nations.
Gaurav Banerjee, MD & CEO of SPNI, expressed delight at securing the rights, emphasizing the opportunity to bring these exciting tournaments to viewers for the next eight years. The acquisition comes after SPNI’s failed merger with Zee Entertainment Enterprises, highlighting the company’s commitment to expanding its reach in the competitive Indian media landscape.
The deal underscores the intense competition for cricket broadcasting rights in India. While Reliance Industries (Viacom18, Jio) and Disney Star hold a significant portion of the market, reports suggest they did not participate in the ACC bidding process. This win for SPNI follows their recent acquisition of New Zealand cricket broadcasting rights, further solidifying their position in the sports entertainment sector. All ACC matches will be broadcast across SPNI’s sports channels and streamed on SonyLIV.
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