England’s upcoming Test series against Pakistan will now be broadcast on Sky Sports after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reached a last-minute agreement to secure the TV rights.
With concerns over a potential TV blackout, the deal ensures that cricket fans in the UK can catch all the action starting from October 7.
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Why was there a delay in securing broadcast rights?
The delay in confirming the broadcast of the series was primarily due to ongoing negotiations between Sky Sports and the PCB. Originally, the PCB’s proposed rights fee for the three-match Test series proved to be a hurdle for Sky Sports.
However, after the PCB agreed to lower the fee, both parties were able to reach a consensus, avoiding what could have been a disappointing TV blackout for fans eager to watch England’s matches in Pakistan.
According to reports, the deal will soon be formally announced, and Sky Sports will broadcast the entire series live. This development comes after weeks of uncertainty regarding the availability of the series on television in the UK.
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What is the schedule for the Pakistan vs England Test Series?
The series is set to kick off with the first Test in Multan from October 7-11, followed by the second Test in the same venue from October 15-19. The teams will then head to Rawalpindi for the third and final Test, scheduled from October 24-28.
The series marks England’s return to Pakistan for a full-fledged Test tour, and the ECB has expressed its enthusiasm for the upcoming matches.
“We’re really excited to be returning to Pakistan for this three-match men’s Test tour in October. Our last men’s Test tour of Pakistan produced some memorable matches, and I’m sure fans can look forward to more exciting cricket across this forthcoming series,” said ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard Gould.
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Will the series be available on other platforms?
Alongside Sky Sports, the BBC is also expected to secure rights for audio broadcasts of the series.
According to reports, the BBC will air ball-by-ball commentary of all three matches through its renowned Test Match Special program, ensuring radio listeners also have access to live coverage.
With the deal in place, the focus now shifts to the on-field action, as England takes on Pakistan in what promises to be a thrilling Test series.