Cricket South Africa has awarded exclusive broadcasting rights for all home international matches to ARY Digital Network until 2027. ARY’s A Sports will provide comprehensive coverage, including live broadcasts and exclusive content. Pakistan’s men’s team is set to tour South Africa for two Tests and six limited-overs matches this December and January. Pakistan ranks fourth in SA cricket streaming statistics, accounting for 9.1% of global viewership. This deal was facilitated by IMG, which has a 30-year partnership with CSA.
The governing body, Cricket South Africa (CSA), has formally awarded exclusive broadcasting rights for all home international cricket matches to ARY Digital Network in Pakistan through the year 2027. Under this agreement, ARY’s leading sports channel, A Sports, will showcase all international matches hosted by CSA. This comprehensive arrangement includes live broadcasts, extensive analysis, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content, enhancing the viewing experience for cricket fans. This announcement comes on the heels of Pakistan’s men’s cricket team preparing to tour South Africa for a series of eight matches, which encompasses two Test matches and six limited-overs games scheduled for December and January. Pakistan has shown a strong interest in South African cricket, as they currently rank fourth in the streaming statistics for South African cricket, reportedly making up 9.1% of the total global viewership. The deal was facilitated by IMG, a prominent sports marketing agency, and closely follows CSA’s other broadcasting agreements, notably with Foxtel Group for the distribution of the men’s and women’s international matches in Australia. It is significant to note that IMG has maintained a partnership with CSA for over 30 years, managing the federation’s international media rights. Rathindra Basu, Vice President for India & South Asia and pan-regional sales at IMG’s media division, stated, “Pakistan is one of the world’s most passionate cricketing nations. Together with CSA, we’re continuing to deliver increased commercial opportunities for the sport and grow the Proteas’ audience worldwide.” In addition, ARY has recently secured domestic media rights for all Pakistan home international matches until December 2026, reinforcing its commitment to cricket coverage in the region. CSA has also made news by appointing Dafabet as a new shirt sponsor for its national teams.
The recent agreement between Cricket South Africa and ARY Digital Network marks a significant development in the broadcasting landscape for cricket in Pakistan. With its rich cricketing heritage and fervent fan base, Pakistan continues to be a crucial market for cricket-related media rights. This collaboration not only strengthens the visibility of South African cricket but also enhances the viewing options for Pakistani fans who follow international matches closely. The emphasis on digital and traditional media broadcasts reflects the growing trend of sports viewership in an increasingly competitive media environment. Furthermore, the involvement of IMG underscores the strategic importance of professional sports marketing in navigating these agreements to maximize commercial benefits for cricketing bodies.
In conclusion, the partnership between Cricket South Africa and ARY Digital Network heralds a new chapter in the broadcasting of international cricket in Pakistan, extending through 2027. This deal promises to deliver comprehensive coverage of all home matches, enhancing engagement with the sport’s dedicated fanbase. The emphasis on providing live broadcasts and exclusive content is expected to foster a deeper connection with cricket enthusiasts. Additionally, with IMG’s longstanding relationship with CSA and ARY’s recent acquisition of domestic rights, the stage is set for an enriching cricketing experience for Pakistani fans.
Original Source: www.sportcal.com
