ITV

Category: TV Channels

  • Zee to go the whole hog with DP World ILT20 cricket league in 2025

    Zee to go the whole hog with DP World ILT20 cricket league in 2025

    MUMBAI: Sports is what it had let go of more than a decade or so ago. Now Zee Entertainment is making a big-bang entry back into it. The entertainment giant announced today that it will be telecasting the DP World International League T20 (ILT20) on 15 of its channels, on Zee5 and on its syndicate partners’ TV and digital networks across the world from 11 January 2025 for the month long cricket fiesta. 

    Among the channels it will be telecasting the matches include: &Pictures SD, &Pictures HD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Anmol Cinema 2, Zee Action, Zee Biskope, Zee Zest SD, Zee Cinemalu HD, Zee Telugu HD, Zee Thirai, Zee Tamil HD, Zee Kannada HD, Zee Zest HD, &Flix SD, &Flix HD. The DPL ILT20 tournament will also be free to view on one of India’s leading OTT platforms – Zee5. 

    A press release issued by the network states that the idea is to capture a viewership of 230 million just from India. What will help it get there is the fact that the tournament will be shown on its southern language channels as well, expanding its reach exponentially. 

    The matches will take place at three iconic UAE locations – Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah – starting from 11 January  to 9 February 2025.

    “Zee is delighted to present third season of DP World ILT20 to cricket fans in India and across the globe, offering an electrifying experience across our 15 linear TV channels and OTT platform, Zee5,” says Zee chief growth officer-digital & broadcast revenue. “With some of the finest players, iconic stadiums and top sporting franchises, we aim to elevate the cricket carnival experience, building on last year’s success and cementing the league’s status as the second most watched T20 cricket league globally.” 

    DP World ILT20, in its second season, drew 200,000 attendees over 34 games. The league is the second most-watched T20 cricket league globally, with a total of 348 million unique viewers from around the world, including a staggering 221 million viewers from India. With a notable 46 per cent share of female viewership and 55 per cent share of youth viewership, the league’s broad appeal in India underscores its status as household entertainment, says the press release.

    “The difference between DPL World ILT20 and IPLT20 is that each of the franchises can have more international players on the teams in our league. The IPL has by its construct more Indian players in each team,” Sehgal had told news channel Wion during an interview earlier this week. 

    The existing roster continues to be strong with the presence of players like David Warner, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran, Lockie Ferguson, Wanindu Hasaranga and Jake Fraser McGurk among others.

    The franchise-style tournament DP World ILT20 comprises six teams: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Knight Riders Group), Desert Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR Group), Gulf Giants (Adani Sportsline), MI Emirates (Reliance Industries), and Sharjah Warriorz (Capri Global).

    The previous edition was won by MI Emirates.

  • Subhash Ghai’s Mukta Arts inks deal for 37 films with Zee

    Subhash Ghai’s Mukta Arts inks deal for 37 films with Zee

    MUMBAI: The Shubash Ghai-promoted Mukta Arts today informed the Bombay stock exchange that is has entered into an assignment agreement and executed a term sheet with Zee Entertainment Enterprises for 37 of its films.  The deal assigns the  satellite and media rights of the films to Zee for six years, commencing 25 August 2027.

    Mukta Arts announced that the duo agreed to a 25 per cent higher fee for the rights as compared to the previous agreement. The two did not disclose what the final deal amount is.  Amongst the big films that Ghai has helmed include: Karz, Khalnayak, Hero, Ram Lakhan, Karma, Pardes, Saudagar, Taal, Yaadein, Bombay To Bangkok, Good Boy Bad Boy, Khanna & Iyer, Sham Ghanshyam.

    Mukta Arts has had a long history of working with Zee with its films being licensed to the broadcaster repeatedly. The duo signed a deal wherein the veteran film maker would make three films for Zee Studios in 2021.The first of these was 36 Farmhouse which was released in January 2022.

    Recently, Mukta Arts, Mukta A2 cinema, Zee Cinema and PVR announced that the Anil Kapoor-starrer Taal would be re-released in theatres from 27 September in the twenty-fifth year of its first release. 
     

  • CNN-News18 Town Hall brings together political bigwigs

    CNN-News18 Town Hall brings together political bigwigs

    Mumbai: The much-anticipated CNN-News18 Town Hall is set to make a grand comeback on 27 September in Mumbai. Renowned for its dynamic and thought-provoking discussions, CNN-News18 Town Hall has previously hosted editions across Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. Over the years, the platform has seen key figures from politics, business, and entertainment converge to debate national issues and the country’s key policies.

    The theme of this edition, ‘Road to Delhi via Mumbai?’, arrives at a pivotal moment as India navigates its political landscape in the lead-up to assembly elections in Maharashtra. Previously, CNN-News18 Town Hall has featured prominent figures such as Nirmala Sitharaman, S. Jaishankar, Nitin Gadkari, Shashi Tharoor, MK Stalin, Aaditya Thackeray, along with entertainment actors like Kartik Aryan and Sameer Nigam.

    This year’s event continues this legacy with a series of engaging sessions focused on critical political and cultural topics. Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde will lead a conversation on ‘Mahayuti’s Maharashtra Test’, discussing the coalition’s future in the state. Aaditya Thackeray, MLA, Maharashtra (Shiv Sena UBT), will delve into his party’s strategy in a session titled ‘Matoshree to Prove Its Might?’, while Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis answers the question ‘Can BJP Get Its Math Right?’, as he examines the party’s electoral calculations. Supriya Sule MP, NCP (SP) will outline her party’s vision for the upcoming Assembly elections in a session titled ‘Pawar-Play: Maha ‘Binding’ Factor?’. On the other hand, Aditi Tatkare, State Minister and MLA, NCP (AP) will also share her views on the same topic. The CNN-News18 Town Hall would also see Milind Deora, MP, Rajya Sabha (Shiv Sena) and Priyanka Chaturvedi, MP, Rajya Sabha (Shiv Sena UBT) weigh in on ‘Who is the Real Shiv Sena?’ in back-to-back sessions. From the entertainment sphere, Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal will address “The New Reality of Theatrical vs OTT”.

    Network18 CEO – English & Business News Smriti Mehra said, “CNN-News18 has been the number one English news channel for over two consecutive years. This achievement is a testament to our commitment to delivering impactful, relevant content to our viewers. Given its stellar lineup of speakers, I have no doubt that CNN-News18 Town Hall will once again captivate our viewers and set the stage for essential conversations that will shape the nation’s future.”

    CNN-News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob added, “The CNN-News18 Town Hall was born out of a need for candid, unfiltered exchange of dialogue that goes beyond the usual political discourse. Now in its seventh edition, it remains a crucial space where the country’s most pressing issues are addressed by a diverse mix of leaders and influencers. As we bring together voices that shape policy, culture, and society, we continue to lead the national debate on what truly matters to India.” 

  • Bigg Boss Kannada 11 to premiere on 29 September

    Bigg Boss Kannada 11 to premiere on 29 September

    Mumbai: Colors Kannada is launching season 11 of Bigg Boss, one of India’s biggest reality shows. The premiere will air on 29 September at 6 pm, with daily episodes following at 9:30 pm and on Jio Cinema. This season features a ‘Hell and Heaven’ theme, where contestants are divided into two groups—one enjoying luxury and the other facing challenges without basic amenities.

    For the first time, contestants will be revealed before the show’s launch during the Raja Rani Reloaded Grand Finale on 28 September, where viewers will decide who goes to hell and who enters heaven. Kiccha Sudeep will return as host, bringing his experience and leadership to the show. This season will feature a diverse mix of celebrities and influencers, with a larger Bigg Boss house designed for elaborate games and tasks, promising drama and unexpected moments.

    Kiccha Sudeep said, “Ten seasons has been an incredible journey. Stepping into the 11th season is altogether an additional responsibility. With a refreshed format and a new concept, this season is not just another chapter—it’s a legacy we’re all building together. I’m excited for the newer lot.”

    Viacom18 president- general entertainment Alok Jain said, “Bigg Boss has always been a trailblazing property in the media and entertainment landscape, consistently breaking through the clutter with its dynamic, engaging content that resonates across languages and regions. As one of the most impactful franchises on television, it captivates millions with its high-voltage entertainment and unmatched viewer connection. Our aim is to always delight audiences and keep our promise of bringing new and exciting content to our viewers in Karnataka. This season of Bigg Boss Kannada introduces the exciting ‘Hell and Heaven’ theme, foretelling a thrilling experience for our audiences. We’re also thankful to our brand partners for being part of journey. Their association is a testament to the show’s reach and success across the region.”

    Banijay Asia and EndemolShine India founder and group CEO Deepak Dhar said, “We are excited to bring the 11th season of Bigg Boss Kannada to our viewers, packed with high-energy entertainment and drama, with the iconic Kiccha Sudeep returning as host. The overwhelming love and support from our audience year after year has driven us to raise the bar for the show once again. Our continued partnership with Colors Kannada and JioCinema promises another successful season to our beloved audiences in India & beyond. At EndemolShine India, our focus is to tailor engaging formats like Bigg Boss to resonate with linguistic & cultural preferences across regions. We are confident that this season will not only entertain but engage and thrill viewers, as Bigg Boss Kannada continues to grow stronger each year.”

    Bigg Boss Kannada Season 11 is co-powered by Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil, with special partners Sadguru Ayurveda Gram Flour Soap, Sudarshan Silks, Haier, Nirantara Divine Puja Oil, India Gate Basmati Rice, A23 Rummy, associate partner Hangyo Ice Cream and Amrutanjan, along with prize partner Confident Group and digital partner Vimal Elaichi and Sharief Bhai Biryani.

    Viewers can enjoy Bigg Boss Kannada episodes for free on Jio Cinema the day after they air, catching all the action free of cost.

  • Brands, India’s monumental chess Olympiad24 win, TV channels & OTTs

    Brands, India’s monumental chess Olympiad24 win, TV channels & OTTs

    MUMBAI: Did Indian TV sports channels, streamers and brands miss out on a great branding and monetisation opportunity last week during India’s monumental victory at the 45th Chess Olympiad 2024?  

    Some such as former sports broadcaster and an ardent chess player Harish Thawani think so. Said he on linkedin: “Nothing in the history of Indian sports/games achievement will come close to this. Indian women and men BOTH win gold at the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad 2024. Corporate India slept on associating with this opportunity, whether out of indifference to chess or because of advisors that are only cricket focused, I can’t say.” 

    Agreed Essar chief digital officer Vinod Sivaram Krishnan: “Cliff hangers of boards, accompanied by the right production values and expert commentary would have ensured that the edge-of-the-seat action could be converted into a significant marketing opportunity.”

    According to Thawani, 10 per cent  of the global population play chess – that is about 700 million.  “India has an estimated 85 million people that play chess. That’s more people than any other sport in India except cricket. So, there is an audience, it just is not being addressed,” he pointed out on linkedin.  

    He could well be right as according to online analytics, chess.com’s second largest traffic comes from India, accounting for some 15.4 million users. Then chessbaseIndia, chess.com and gothamchess have  1.92 million,  2.05 million subs, 5.43 million active subs respectively on youtube.

    Krishnan revealed that, like millions of others, he was glued to the matches online and on Youtube. But he added that “the poor quality of coverage of the event in the mainstream media was underwhelming. I realized that the opportunity was very significant.”

     Thawani explained that the feat by both the men and the women chess players as a team was “staggering, unbelievable, a mind-bending accomplishment. To win both golds with almost 200nations participating. It’s akin to a country winning the 100/200 meters and marathon in both men’s and women’s at Olympics. Anyone who has played competitive chess even at local level will tell you that this was impossible. Until today.” 

    Echoing  many a sports broadcasting acquisition executive, who complain of low viewership for any sports apart from cricket LabIndia Instruments regional sales manager Seshu Ramakrishnan Suri said: “Chess is not an audience sport and unless one knows the game they cannot enjoy. If it is not a mass sport why will a corporate get involved as they look at reward coming out of it.” 

    To this Thawani had a sharp reply: “..audience size is not the only reason to sponsor a sport/game – quality of audience, level of involvement, national pride, brand values synergy (remember IBM and Intel’s involvement with chess?) and more.” 

    Krishnan highlighted that chess has legs as seen in the current generation of chess players who displayed “fearless play from all 10 of them in the face of the best that the world has to offer meant that the result was just the icing on the cake. Knowing that there are several other strong players waiting in the wings for each one playing today gives the same feeling of bench strength that one gets in cricket. It was so heartening to see our young stalwarts take on veterans without a shred of nervousness!”

    But all is not lost as former sports broadcast executive Deep Drona said on linkedin: “It’s time to broaden the chatter beyond the popular or most obvious in the space of sports.”

    Are the sports streamers, broadcasters and brands listening?

    Will they rise and put their might behind chess as they have done with kabaddi and football?

    (For the uninitiated, India’s men and women’s chess teams consisting of  Gukesh Dommaraju – more commonly known as Gukesh D , Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa and Arjun Erigaisi and Harika Dronavalli, Vaishali Rameshbabu, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, and Tania Sachdev won the gold each in the men’s and women’s event respectively. Gukesh, Erigaisi, Deshmukh and Agrawal bagged individual gold medals on their respective boards.)

  • ICC unveils official song ‘Whatever It Takes’ for Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

    ICC unveils official song ‘Whatever It Takes’ for Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

    Mumbai: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the official event song for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, titled ‘Whatever It Takes.’ The soundtrack is a collaboration between the vibrant all-girl pop group W.i.S.H., acclaimed music director Mikey McCleary, composer Parth Parekh, and produced by Bay Music House. The single is now available for download and streaming on major platforms worldwide.

    The official music video was also launched alongside the soundtrack, offering a cinematic preview of the tournament. It features highlight reels of iconic moments in women’s cricket and the choreography portrays the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 as the must-watch event of the year.

    The song for the ninth edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup embraces a global pop sound, blending excitement and energy to resonate with international audiences and connect with younger fans.

    W.i.S.H., the all-girl pop sensation, brings youthful energy and modern flair to the track, celebrating empowered women in sport through Mikey McCleary’s visionary composition. The campaign slogan for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup – “Whatever It Takes,” embodies the journey of elite cricketers who dedicate themselves to achieving excellence in their sport. The song echoes this sentiment, celebrating the commitment and pursuit of excellence that characterises champions.

    ICC general manager – marketing and communications, Claire Furlong said: “The ICC is committed to make the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 the best possible stage for world class players to shine. Women’s cricket is firmly established on the global stage, and our vision is to further enhance its recognition with the launch of the official event song. This soundtrack is not only a prelude of the extraordinary talent that will be displayed on the field of play, but also the vehicle to inspiring a new generation of heroes to women’s cricket’s ever-growing, worldwide fanbase.”

    Building on the success of the 2023 edition in South Africa, which recorded over 190 million global viewing hours – a remarkable 44% increase from the 2020 tournament – the 2024 event is expected to elevate the sport even further, attracting new audiences and increasing engagement worldwide.

    The action is set to begin at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates, on 3 October 2024, where each of the 10 participating nations will undoubtedly do ‘Whatever It Takes’ to lift the trophy at the conclusion of the Final at Dubai International Stadium on 20 October.

    W.i.S.H. shared their excitement at the launch of the song, “We are incredibly proud to share that as an all-girl group, we’ve created the official event song for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup! Cricket is a powerful force that unites people across our country and around the world, and it’s an honour to contribute to such a special occasion. As huge fans of Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandhana, we can’t wait for them to do the hook step from the music video and of course the other players from all the participating nations!”

    Speaking about the song, music director, Mikey McCleary said, – “I feel we have captured the vibe and the energy of a T20 cricket world cup in this song and can’t wait for cricket fans all over the world to listen to it.”

  • South United FC partners with Sprentzo for on-site PUMA sports gear store

    South United FC partners with Sprentzo for on-site PUMA sports gear store

    Mumbai: South United Football Club (SUFC) partners with Sprentzo, a sports equipment rental platform, to open an on-site PUMA store at SUFC’s Ulsoor facility in Bengaluru. This partnership enhances the athlete experience by offering premium sports gear for rent and purchase directly at the club.

    As SUFC’s sports equipment rental partner, Sprentzo will provide easy access to PUMA products, ensuring athletes and visitors can rent or try out gear before purchase. The store aims to deliver quality and convenience for players, offering hygienic, top-tier sports equipment right on the grounds.

    SUFC’s CEO Pranav Trehan stated, “At South United, we are always looking for ways to enhance the experience for our players and fans. This partnership with Sprentzo reflects our commitment to providing not only the best facilities but also the best gear right on-site. By offering the latest PUMA products and sports equipment on rent through Sprentzo, we ensure that everyone who steps onto our grounds is equipped to perform at their best. This initiative is a significant step forward in creating a holistic sports environment where convenience meets quality, right at the heart of our Club.”

    Sprentzo’s co-founder, Piyush Jain added, “We’re thrilled to announce this collaboration between SUFC and Sprentzo, bringing together the best infrastructure and top-tier sports gear under one roof. The partnership offers unparalleled convenience for every athlete and sports enthusiast. Whether you’ve forgotten your boots or want to try them before you buy, simply book your game at SUFC and head to our new experience centre. We’ll take care of the rest!”

    Sprentzo’s co-founder Pravruth B.H emphasised the convenience and quality of the new store, saying, “South United FC has set new standards for top-tier sports facilities, raising the bar in every way. By partnering with Sprentzo, we’re bringing this excellence to an even wider audience. This partnership will allow people to try premium products before purchasing and will facilitate convenient rentals of top-quality and hygienic gear at the facility. Our first-of-its-kind rental and experience store will also feature a curated section of the best PUMA products, enhancing the overall experience within the venue.”

    This partnership between SUFC and Sprentzo promises to elevate the sports culture at the club, offering unparalleled access to the best sports gear and fostering a stronger community.

     

  • Disney Star launches #She4HerGlory campaign

    Disney Star launches #She4HerGlory campaign

    Mumbai: In the run-up to the ICC Women’s World Cup 2024, Disney Star has launched the #She4HerGlory campaign, a unique initiative designed to empower and celebrate women in cricket. The campaign has united women leaders from across industries to rally behind the Indian Women’s Cricket Team while also shining a spotlight on the growing prominence of women’s cricket.

    The #She4HerGlory campaign adopted a creative approach, featuring each leader highlighting unique facts about women’s cricket. Not many people know that the first ever double century in limited overs cricket was scored by Australian woman cricketer, Belinda Clark and not Sachin Tendulkar. Fewer still know that the first Women’s Cricket World Cup was held before the Men’s Cricket World Cup in 1973. This approach not only celebrates the sport but also educates and inspires viewers about the rich history and future potential of women’s cricket.

    For the first time ever, close to 40 prominent voices echoed these sentiments, including Anupriya Acharya (CEO, Publicis Groupe – South Asia), Anita Kotwani (CEO, Dentsu Media South Asia), Sheran Mehra (Chief Brand Officer, Tata Digital), Anjali Madan (Director, Consumer Experience, Mondelez India Poulomi Roy (CMO, Joy Personal Care), Rathi Gangappa (CEO, Starcom India), Hema Malik (Chief Investment Officer, IPL Mediabrands India), Anisha Iyer (CEO, OMD India), Vaishali Verma (CEO, Initiative India), Sumeet Singh (CMO, Info Edge India Ltd), Kanika Kalra (Regional Marketing Director – Health, Reckitt, South Asia) and Richa Singh (Managing Director India & Middle East at Natural Diamond Council). These leaders shared their thoughts on the importance of women’s cricket and its increasing significance, not just in sports but also across industries.

    In culmination to the event, Disney Star hosted a vibrant gathering of CEOs, CMOs, and senior executives from the media and marketing fraternity on 18 September, all driven by a shared commitment to advancing women in sports. The event was graced by former Indian women’s team captain Mithali Raj as she enamoured the audiences with inspiring stories from her journey as a cricketer. Renowned sports presenter Mayanti Langer Binny was the host for the evening, bringing energy to the gathering.

    Shubhra Sethi, Head of Product and Revenue Strategy at Star Sports set the tone for the event as she spoke about #She4HerGlory being collective celebration of women’s cricket led by prominent women leaders from media and marketing with the aim to harness the influence of these leaders to champion the growth and success of the sport. She also spoke about Disney Star’s commitment to championing women’s cricket and fostering a strong community of supporters as we approach the much-anticipated ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.

    Following this Kingshuk Mitra, Head of Ad Sales at Star Sports and Dhruv Dhawan, Head of Ads at Disney+ Hotstar, India engaged in a fireside chat with Mayanti Langer Binny as they addressed the plethora of opportunities for advertisers during the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup on both platforms and the distinct benefits for brands by associating with the megaevent.

    The event was attended by leaders such as Sam Balsara (Chairman, Madison World), Lara Balsara (Executive Director at Madison World), Praveena Rai (COO at NPCI), Ajay Dang (President, Head Marketing at Ultra Tech Cement), Vikram Sakhuja (Group CEO, Madison Media and OOH), Prasenjit Basu (CMO at Voltas Beko), Omer Aydin (CFO at Voltas Beko), Moupriya Das (AGM, Marketing at Audi India), Kavita Jagtiani (CMO, L&T Finance) and Vikash Anand (Deputy Vice President, Marketing at Angel One) among others.

    The success of the #She4HerGlory event underscores Disney Star commitment to driving visibility for women’s cricket. The event’s impact ensures that the voices of women leaders across industries will be heard as India gears up for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, starting on October 3.

  • Sony Sports Network sets new benchmark for football broadcasting in India

    Sony Sports Network sets new benchmark for football broadcasting in India

    Mumbai: Sony Sports Network has set new benchmarks in the Indian sports broadcasting landscape, showcasing the immense growth of football viewership across diverse demographics. The growing popularity of European football in India is undeniable, with an increasing fan base eagerly following international tournaments like the Euros. This trend reflects a broader shift in sports preferences among Indian audiences, presenting Sony Sports Network with opportunities to expand its influence in the sports broadcasting landscape.

    From August 2023 to July 2024, the network has delivered an impressive 2,177 hours of live football coverage, the highest among all sports broadcasters in India. Likewise, Sony Sports has also recorded the most viewership for football on Pay Sports channels in India with 63.3 GRPs and an overall reach of 85.7 million among pay sports channels for all Live + Non-Live SOCCER (BARC) for the period from 1 August 2023 to 31 July 2024. (TG: BARC, All India Male 15+ ABC, SOCCER). It also has the highest reach among pay sports channels for all Live + Non-Live SOCCER (BARC) for the period from 1 August 2023 to 31 July 2024 (TG: BARC, All India CS 2+, SOCCER). This staggering amount of airtime showcases the network’s commitment to bringing the beautiful game to millions of fans across the country.

    Sony Sports Network is the exclusive home to a wide array of prestigious football properties. This includes the highly anticipated UEFA EURO 2028, one of the most celebrated tournaments in international football. Similarly, they hold broadcasting rights for the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, and UEFA Nations League, among others.

    The network also covers the European Qualifiers, UEFA Youth League, international friendlies, the Emirates FA Cup, Bundesliga, Roshn Saudi League, and the DFB Pokal. This vast array of football content ensures that viewers have access to a comprehensive and diverse range of football action, from elite European club competitions to global international fixtures.

    Starting from the 2024/25 season, the UEFA Champions League will adopt a new format that includes 36 clubs competing in a Swiss league system. This change introduces four additional teams, providing more opportunities for clubs to face Europe’s elite.

    Fans can look forward to a continuous flow of European club football from August to May, as the tournament will no longer have a January break. The revamped format will see a remarkable 51 per cent increase in matches, adding over 125 games to the schedule.

    To cater to Indian audiences, the number of early kickoff matches will nearly double, featuring up to 38 such matches per season. The duration for early kickoff slots has also expanded from 12 to 22 days, ensuring both Group and Knockout stages include these popular times.

    For Indian viewers, matches will start at 10:15 PM until Daylight Savings Time, after which they will begin at 11:15 PM. This evolution in the competition promises to enhance the viewing experience and further grow the sport’s popularity.

    Speaking of an oldest football tournament particularly in Asia, the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup has gained its legacy as one of India’s premier tournaments, led by the armed forces. Over the past two years, Sony Sports Network has collaborated closely with the Durand Organizing Committee to elevate the event to new heights. Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan spearheaded the campaign, while former national team captain Sunil Chhetri, who recently retired, also featured prominently in the promotional film. In a historic moment, the Indian president Droupadi Murmuru, unveiled the trophies and launched the trophy tour, marking the first presidential involvement in 36 years.

    Additionally, Sony Sports Network’s effective marketing strategies, like the appointment of Aaryan as the brand ambassador for the “Universe Ka Sabse Bada Football Festival of 2024” campaign, aims to engage a younger, more affluent audience, expanding the sport’s reach beyond traditional markets like Northeast India, Goa, Kerala, and West Bengal. In this campaign, Aaryan dons the avatar of an alien to symbolize the universal appeal and excitement surrounding the event, emphasizing that UEFA Euro 2024 is not just a football tournament but a global festival that transcends boundaries. His involvement adds a touch of entertainment and relatability, ensuring the campaign resonates with fans across the country.

    The integration of OTT platforms ensures that matches are accessible both on television and online, catering to the evolving consumption habits of modern viewers who prefer streaming content. Although many industry experts have delved that TV is by any day a preferred destination, as viewing sports on a large screen is highly beneficial and entertaining to the viewers especially when watching with family. In addition to high-definition broadcasts, Sony Sports Network has significantly expanded its multilingual commentary offerings. Recognising the diverse linguistic landscape of India, the network provides commentary in multiple regional languages,for marquee tournaments and matches including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Bengali to resonate with a broader audience and make them feel included in the excitement.

    If we talk about one particular challenge that stands out, it would definitely be cricket’s dominant viewership. Cricket receives extensive media coverage across all platforms, including television, print, and digital media. Major cricket events dominate sports news and attract a significant portion of advertising revenue, often leaving little room for other sports. With cricket’s extensive reach and established fan base, football often competes for limited viewing slots and advertising revenue. This competition makes it difficult for football events to secure the same level of attention and financial backing.

    Despite these shortcomings, the viewership figures are a clear indicator of the increasing appetite for football in India, transcending traditional boundaries and attracting a wide range of viewers. The network’s ability to captivate such a large audience highlights the effectiveness of its content strategy and its understanding of the evolving sports preferences of Indian audiences. By offering the maximum number of live football hours, boasting the largest bouquet of football properties and achieving the highest cumulative reach, it is no doubt that Sony Sports Network has set a new standard for sports broadcasting in India. 

  • DP World ILT20 season three unveils new signings and retained players

    DP World ILT20 season three unveils new signings and retained players

    Mumbai: The DP World International League T20’s season three, to be broadcasted by Zee Entertainment, promises to be a high-octane cricket experience with the addition of the biggest names to the six franchises. The window to sign new players began in June and concluded on Sunday, 15 September.

    Season three of DP World ILT20 will feature international T20 stars like Jason Roy (Sharjah Warriors), Fakhar Zaman (Desert Vipers), Shai Hope (Dubai Capitals), Lockie Ferguson (Desert Vipers), Roston Chase (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Matthew Wade (Sharjah Warriors), Ibrahim Zadran (Gulf Giants) and Romario Shepherd (MI Emirates) making their debut in the tournament. Fans will be treated to exciting action as these cricketers showcase their skills in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah.

    Some of the world’s most prominent cricket stars are slated to play in season three, including Australian powerhouse, David Warner and Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka. They will be joined by West Indian legends like Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard and Rovman Powell, who will bring their dynamic all-round abilities to the tournament. The league will also feature some more talents from the previous seasons, including Sikandar Raza, Chris Jordan, James Vince, Shimron Hetmyer and Nicholas Pooran. Other key retained players include, Kusal Mendis and Tom Kohler-Cadmore.

    Commenting on the announcement, Zee Entertainment Enterprise Ltd chief growth officer – digital & broadcast revenue – Ashish Sehgal said, “Zee is delighted to unveil the impressive line-up for Season 3, featuring some of the world’s finest players. With iconic locations like Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, world – class infrastructure and six powerhouse franchises, our aim is to build on the success of the last two seasons and solidify the league as one of the most-widely followed global cricket events. As it continues to attract international interest, we are excited to present this thrilling cricketing spectacle to fans across the world.”

    Other season three signings include New Zealand quick Adam Milne, seasoned wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert (New Zealand), Australia left-arm spinner Ashton Agar (Australia squad member – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024), Afghanistan all-rounder Karim Janat (Afghanistan squad member – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Gulf Giants season two) West Indies all-rounder Keemo Paul, Sri Lanka duo of Avishka Fernando and Bhanuka Rajapaksha (Dubai Capitals Season 1, MI Emirates season two), Australia all-rounder Daniel Sams (rehired for season three), USA left-arm spinner Harmeet Singh and Malaysian all-rounder Virandeep Singh.

    Meanwhile the teams can add more players or replacements to their squads upon clearance from the ILT20 Technical Committee. Teams can also add additional UAE players to their squads via a Draft which will take place after the conclusion of the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament next month. Details of the tournament will be shared in the coming days.

    Cricket fans and sports enthusiasts in India and around the world can watch the live action exclusively on ZEE’s 15 linear TV channels, OTT platform ZEE5 and its syndicate partners’ TV and digital networks across the world. Aiming to capture a viewership of 230-million for the upcoming season, ZEE will expand its reach by including South Indian channels, offering a month-long cricket carnival experience.

    Earlier this year, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) reported that the league’s second season reached 221 million viewers. The channel’s extensive distribution strategy ensured widespread accessibility in India and across the globe.

    The six DP World ILT20 season three squads as of 19 September 2024:

    Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

    New signees: Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar, Gudakesh Motie, Hassan Khan, Roston Chase and Terrance Hinds.

    Retentions: Aditya Shetty, Ali Khan, Alishan Sharafu, Andre Russell, Andries Ghous, Charith Asalanka, David Willey, Joe Clarke, Laurie Evans, Micheal Pepper and Sunil Narine.

    Desert Vipers

    New signees: Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Fakhar Zaman, Lockie Ferguson and Max Holden

    Retentions: Adam Hose, Alex Hales, Ali Naseer, Azam Khan, Bas de Leede, Luke Wood, Micheal Jones, Muhammad Amir, Nathan Sowter, Sherfane Rutherford, Tanish Suri and Wanindu Hasaranga.

    Dubai Capitals

    New signees: Adam Rossington, Brandon McMullen, Garuka Sanketh, Gulbadin Naib, Jeffery Vandersay, Joe Burns, Joe Weatherly, Najibullah Zadran, Obed McCoy, Scott Kuggeleijin, Sharafuddin Ashraf and  Shai Hope.

    Retentions: Dasun Shanaka, David Warner, Dushmantha Chameera, Haider Ali, Raja Akif, Rovman Powell, Sam Billings, Sikandar Raza, Zahir Khan, Jake Fraser McGurk and Oliver Stone.

    Gulf Giants

    New signees:  Adam Lyth, Dominic Drakes, Daniel Worrall, Ibrahim Zadran, Mark Adair, Tom Curran, Tymal Mills and Wahidullah Zadran.

    Retentions: Aayan Afzal Khan, Blessing Muzarabani, Chris Jordan, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gerhard Erasmus, Jamie Overton, James Vince, Jamie Smith, Jordan Cox, Mohammad Zohaib Zubair, Rehan Ahmed, Richard Gleeson and Shimron Hetmyer.

    MI Emirates

    New signees: Alzarri Joseph, Romario Shepherd, Tom Banton, Farid Malik, Thomas Jack Draca, Ben Charlesworth.

    Retentions: Akeal Hosein, Andre Fletcher, Daniel Mousley, Dwayne Bravo, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Jordan Thompson, Kieron Pollard, Kusal Perera, Muhammad Rohid Khan, Muhammad Waseem, Nicholas Pooran, Nosthush Kenjige, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth and Waqar Salamkheil.

    Sharjah Warriors

    New signees: Adam Milne, Adil Rashid (played for Warriors in season two as a Wildcard pick), Ashton Agar, Banuka Rajapaksha, Gus Atkinson, Jason Roy, Karim Janat, Keemo Paul, Jason Roy, Matthew Wade and Tim Seifert.

    Retentions: Dilshan Madushanka, Johnson Charles, Junaid Siddique, Muhamad Jawadullah, Kusal Mendis, Luke Wells, Peter Hatzoglou and Tom Kohler-Cadmore.