Cricket Australia Eyes Long-Term UK Broadcast Deal with Amazon and Dazn
Cricket Australia has initiated discussions with major broadcasters, including Amazon and Dazn, regarding a significant four-year UK rights agreement. This deal encompasses both the upcoming men’s and women’s Ashes tours, as well as the historic 150th anniversary Test between England and Australia’s men, scheduled for Melbourne next year. The Guardian reports that Cricket Australia’s media rights team traveled to London last month to engage with potential partners, aiming to finalize negotiations before the domestic season kicks off. This season begins with a two-Test series against Bangladesh in August. Key points of the negotiations include: England’s extensive touring schedule to Australia over the next four years. The men’s white-ball team will play eight ODI and T20 games this autumn. The planned 150th anniversary Test at the MCG next March. Previously, TNT Sports secured the rights for the men’s Ashes tour under a one-year contract that has since expired. Sky Sports, while a partner for Cricket Australia, has not broadcast an away Ashes series since 2013-14. Cricket Australia’s approach towards Dazn is particularly noteworthy, as it may introduce a new rights holder into the UK market. Dazn acquired Foxtel, which currently holds rights for Australia’s home international cricket and the Big Bash League until 2031. Furthermore, Cricket Australia has collaborated with Amazon previously, notably for the documentary series The Test. However, Amazon's sports strategy typically revolves around major one-off events rather than long-term agreements. The upcoming Ashes series at the end of this proposed four-year cycle in 2029-30, alongside the women’s tour a year earlier, forms part of the appealing package for English audiences, especially since the matches will be day-night fixtures concluding mid-morning UK time. Cricket Australia has also arranged a pink-ball warm-up game at the Junction Oval in Melbourne for England, with the opponent still to be confirmed.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-05-14