BCCI Media Rights Tender offer women’s cricket rights for free
In a strategic move that is generating significant buzz, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a distinctive approach to the media rights tender, intertwining women’s cricket with domestic tournaments in their latest offering.
Revolutionizing the Media Rights Landscape
In a surprising move, BCCI, despite its substantial windfall from the WPL Media Rights deal, has chosen not to create a separate media package exclusively for the Indian Women’s Cricket Team. Instead, matches involving Harmanpreet Kaur’s formidable team have been integrated into the ‘Other Series’ category. This grouping encompasses a range of competitions including renowned domestic tournaments such as the Ranji Trophy, Irani Cup, Duleep Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, Deodhar Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. It’s worth noting that this decision perpetuates BCCI’s existing policy, even amidst the burgeoning prominence of women’s cricket on the national stage.
Championing Inclusivity: BCCI’s Unique Approach
The heart of BCCI’s bold approach lies in its decision to offer women’s cricket matches under the umbrella of the broader media rights package. With no separate rights allocation for women’s cricket and a primary focus on securing a comprehensive deal for men’s cricket, this move translates to unrestricted access to women’s cricket matches in India for the rights holders. Remarkably, this decision has been made despite the staggering Rs 951 crore deal for WPL Media Rights, with Viacom18 emerging as the triumphant bidder.
Innovative Media Rights Strategy
The released Invitation to Tender (ITT) by BCCI unveiled the integration of women’s international matches alongside other domestic fixtures and India A games, all of which take place within the country. While this strategy isn’t entirely unconventional, it has stirred curiosity within the cricket community, particularly in light of BCCI’s landmark Women’s IPL deal.
Global Perspectives on Media Rights
A noteworthy observation is the parallel approach of Cricket Australia (CA) and the England Cricket Board, both of which amalgamate women’s cricket rights with all international matches. However, CA distinguishes between Women’s International matches and the Women’s Big Bash League, showcasing a strategic differentiation. In contrast, the International Cricket Council (ICC) previously introduced a dedicated package for women’s matches, underscoring the organization’s consistent emphasis on vigorously promoting women’s sports.
A Broader Vision for Women’s Cricket
Beyond the mere confluence or segregation of women’s and men’s matches, or the acquisition of women’s internationals by broadcasters without additional cost, lies a more profound perspective. It’s about propelling the advancement of women’s cricket, which transcends the immediate context. As one insightful broadcaster aptly put it, “It’s about embracing the larger narrative of women’s cricket’s progression.”
An Exciting Road Ahead
The future of women’s cricket holds immense promise, and Harmanpreet Kaur’s team is set to take center stage. Over the forthcoming three years, they are poised to host a series of captivating bilateral women’s cricket encounters, welcoming esteemed teams like New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, and West Indies.
Conclusion
BCCI’s innovative integration of women’s cricket into the media rights landscape signifies a strategic move that aligns with the broader vision for the sport’s growth. By choosing to intertwine women’s cricket with established domestic tournaments and India A games, BCCI is not only championing inclusivity but also paving the way for a more equitable future in cricket. As the cricketing world witnesses this paradigm shift, it’s clear that the winds of change are sweeping across the realm of sports media rights.
