The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Sony Sports Network India, granting exclusive broadcast and digital rights for all ACC tournaments from 2024 to 2031. ACC President Jay Shah unveiled the deal on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), calling it a significant step in elevating the profile of Asian cricket globally.
"On behalf of @ACCMedia1, I am delighted to announce ACC's partnership with @SonySportsNetwk India, granting them exclusive media rights for all ACC Asia Cup tournaments from 2024 to 2031," Shah stated. He added, "This landmark deal, with over a 70% increase from the previous rights cycle, underscores the growing global stature of ACC events. With Sony's expertise, we are confident in delivering an exceptional viewing experience and setting new benchmarks for Asian cricket."
The agreement represents a major upgrade in rights value compared to the previous cycle held by Star India, with the substantial increase highlighting the surging popularity and marketability of ACC tournaments. Sony’s comprehensive package includes men’s and women’s Asia Cups, U19 Asia Cups, and Emerging Teams Asia Cups, along with other regional competitions.
Transforming Asian Cricket
Jay Shah emphasized the broader impact of this deal: "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." He also noted that the revenue boost would allow the ACC to invest heavily in grassroots cricket, infrastructure, and talent development, particularly for associate nations across Asia.
Gaurav Banerjee, Managing Director and CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India, echoed this sentiment: "We are delighted to bring these action-packed tournaments, which include iconic India-Pakistan clashes, to our viewers for the next eight years. ACC tournaments have created unforgettable moments and intense rivalries, and we are excited to deliver the thrill and spirit of these matches to fans worldwide."
Expanding the Reach of Asian Cricket
Sony plans to leverage its broadcasting expertise and innovative approaches to make ACC tournaments more engaging and accessible. The deal also promises to introduce the excitement of Asian cricket to new audiences, ensuring its continued growth and popularity globally.
ACC’s Tournament Lineup
Under this agreement, Sony will broadcast a wide range of ACC tournaments, including:
Men’s Tournaments:
- ACC Men’s Asia Cup
- ACC Men’s Premier Cup
- ACC Men’s Challenger Cup
- ACC Men’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup
- ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup
- ACC Men’s U16 East Zone Cup
- ACC Men’s U16 West Zone Cup
Women’s Tournaments:
- ACC Women’s Asia Cup
- ACC Women’s Premier Cup
- ACC Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup
- ACC Women’s Under-19 Asia Cup
This comprehensive lineup ensures that fans will enjoy year-round cricket action featuring both emerging talents and established stars.
A New Era of Cricket Broadcasting
The deal marks a significant milestone for the ACC as it moves into a new era of cricket broadcasting. The increased visibility and revenue are expected to raise the profile of Asian cricket globally while fostering development at the grassroots level. Sony’s dedication to delivering an exceptional viewing experience positions the broadcaster as a key player in the future of cricket in Asia.
With this landmark agreement, fans can look forward to thrilling ACC tournaments, including the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clashes, with world-class coverage for the next eight years.
