The England and Wales Cricket Board [ECB] today started its formal Media Rights Sale Process for International and Domestic Cricket for the five-year period 2020-2024.
An Invitation to Tender document has been distributed, offering media rights for all matches played under the auspices of ECB in the United Kingdom and Ireland, including:
England International Men’s Matches – Test, One-Day and Twenty20
England International Women’s Matches – Test, One-Day and Twenty20
County Cricket – Championship, One-Day Cup and Twenty20
Women’s T20 competition
New T20 competition
The process offers opportunities for all broadcasters, platforms and distributors, to bid for live cricket, highlights and clips, for audio-visual, audio and digital use.
Following all submissions, an Evaluation Panel – with a depth of experience in media and cricket and including the Chairman and CEO of ECB – will assess each bid in line with agreed criteria and the terms of the Invitation to Tender.
No further announcements on the Media Rights Sale Process are expected until its conclusion this summer.
Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer of ECB said: “This is a very important process and the outcome will be hugely significant for cricket in England and Wales.
“The game is in good shape, with inspiring international teams, strong County competitions, a recreational game that’s adapting to modern lifestyles and a new participation drive for a younger audience.
“Our partners for the next rights period will help us build on these very strong foundations and develop an even brighter future. They will understand our strategy, see the opportunities and share our ambitions for growth.
“Through this process, we are looking to secure the right balance of reach, revenue and exposure to drive the game for the next decade. To achieve that, we’re offering a wide range of opportunities, within a competitive process that will meet the highest standards.
“Our competitions are attractive, the bidding criteria clear and we have a planned and proper approach to make the right decisions for the long-term growth and vitality of the game.
“We’re excited to see how potential partners look at the opportunities to be involved in the future growth of the game in England and Wales.”