The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has finalized a landmark $5.2 million media rights deal with the national state broadcaster, granting them exclusive access to televise and stream major Asian cricket tournaments over the next cycle. This agreement covers regional tournaments such as the Asia Cup, Women’s Asia Cup, Emerging Teams Cup, Under-19 Asia Cup, and other ACC-sanctioned events.
The deal not only represents a significant financial boost for Asian cricket but also raises questions about audience accessibility, streaming platforms, and the future of sports broadcasting in the region.
📢 Details of the $5.2 Million Deal
According to official announcements, the ACC awarded the complete package of media rights for the next multi-year cycle to the state-owned television network. The $5.2 million contract includes:
- Exclusive TV rights for all major ACC tournaments in Asia
- Digital streaming rights for state-run OTT platforms
- Multi-language commentary to reach wider audiences across the subcontinent and Southeast Asia
- Production responsibilities handled by the broadcaster to ensure high-quality live coverage
The deal is expected to run for four years, starting with the 2025 Emerging Teams Asia Cup and extending to the 2027 Asia Cup, which will serve as a key preparation tournament for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027.
🌏 Why State TV Won the Rights
Industry insiders reveal that state television offered the most competitive bid, beating private media giants and international streaming services. The factors that influenced the ACC’s decision include:
- Wide National Reach – State TV’s availability in remote and rural areas ensures maximum audience coverage.
- Commitment to Grassroots Cricket – Broadcaster’s plans to air junior and women’s cricket alongside men’s tournaments.
- Affordable Access – Matches will be available free-to-air, which aligns with the ACC’s goal to grow the sport’s fanbase.
- Experience in Major Event Coverage – Proven track record in covering high-profile events like the Asia Cup, SAFF Championships, and Olympics.
💰 Economic Impact of the Deal
This $5.2 million agreement provides the Asian Cricket Council with substantial funding that will be channeled into:
- Infrastructure Development – Upgrading stadiums, practice facilities, and training academies.
- Grassroots Programs – Investing in junior cricket and women’s cricket across the region.
- Player Welfare – Improved medical facilities, fitness programs, and contract security for players.
- Event Quality – Enhanced production, HD broadcast, and real-time statistics for viewers.
📺 What This Means for Cricket Fans
For cricket fans in Asia, this deal brings both benefits and potential limitations:
✅ Benefits:
- Free-to-air coverage for millions who don’t have paid subscriptions
- Wider reach in rural and underdeveloped regions
- Local-language commentary for better fan engagement
⚠ Potential Concerns:
- Limited online streaming options for international fans
- Possible lack of high-tech production features compared to private broadcasters
- Advertising-heavy broadcasts due to reliance on sponsorship revenue
📊 Upcoming Events Covered Under the Deal
The deal covers all major ACC events for the next four years, including:
- Men’s Asia Cup (ODI & T20 formats)
- Women’s Asia Cup
- ACC Emerging Teams Cup
- Under-19 Asia Cup
- Regional T20 Qualifiers
🔮 The Future of Cricket Broadcasting in Asia
This move signals a return to state dominance in cricket broadcasting after years of private networks holding the rights. It also indicates the ACC’s long-term vision to prioritize mass accessibility over premium subscription models.
With cricket’s popularity continuing to grow, particularly in Afghanistan, Nepal, and emerging associate nations, this deal could help bridge the gap between urban and rural cricket audiences.
🏏 Final Thoughts
The $5.2 million Asian cricket media rights deal marks a pivotal moment in the region’s sporting history. By awarding the rights to the state broadcaster, the ACC has made a clear statement — cricket belongs to the masses, not just the elite with subscription services.
While private broadcasters often promise cutting-edge production and international glamour, this move ensures that a farmer in a remote village, a student with no paid TV access, and a family watching together in their living room will all get to enjoy the thrills of Asian cricket without extra cost.