Cricket Australia expects big from broadcast rights after loss-making season

Australian Cricket Team (Source: Twitter)

After a disappointing Ashes last summer where Cricket Australia faced a massive loss, they are in a dire need of recovering from it, expectedly through forthcoming broadcast rights deal that might be a saviour for them. 

While the $5 million loss they incurred during the 2021-22 season was dispiriting, they have mentioned sky-high budget spent on bio-bubbles during the covid-era along with the lowered sale of British media rights as the reason.

Revenue generated from gate sales and hospitality did grow, but it was never enough to recuperate from the loss entirely. The actual problem for the board arose when their current broadcasting partner Channel Seven initiated a case against them for the loss they faced due to reduced games during the pandemic.

Significantly, grown player salaries for the Big Bash League from next season might put further pressure as the Australian Cricketers Association is keen on the increment. However, it is expected that the next two seasons could also prove ineffective, with not many significant tours on the cards.

With the broadcast rights coming up for renewal in 2024, it is highly expected that the battle will see a face-off between previous rights holders Channel Nine and current holders Fox.

Recently, Disney Star grabbed the broadcast rights for the Indian Subcontinent priced at $360 Million for seven years, with current partners Sony left shell-shocked after an unexpected bid from their rivals.

It will surely be a case of fortune for CA if they manage to overcome from the current scenario that is causing them problems.

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