Cricket Australia-Star Sports partnership off to a flying start with surge in viewership

More than 55 million viewers watched the entire BBL 2023-24 season on Star Sports Network, 203% more than the previous season, making it the most-watched edition in India. Furthermore, the broadcaster has recorded 3.75 billion minutes of watch time, 105% higher than the previous season. The playoffs and the final on Star Sports were produced in five languages for the first time ever.

Furthermore, the bilateral series between Australia and Pakistan witnessed more than 9.5 million viewers tune in for the three Tests, a remarkable 54% increase compared to the previous Pakistan tour down under.

The increased interest in Australian Cricket after a successful World Cup campaign in India and the promise of action-packed contests combined with growing penetration of the Star Sports Network (available in 9 out of 10 Pay TV homes), a well-rounded marketing campaign promoting the Australian summer and high-quality broadcasts customised for Indian fans, paved the way for this surge in viewership.

Nick Hockley, CEO, Cricket Australia,said, “We are delighted with the strong interest in Australian cricket in India and that this has translated into such big viewing audiences on Star Sports. It is particularly pleasing that the BBL has reached a massive 55 million viewers this season, which is a testament to the quality of cricket and the brilliant coverage being offered by Star Sports, including in multiple languages for the BBL Finals. That more than 9.5 million viewers tuned into Star Sports for the recent series against Pakistan is a testament to the interest in this world champion Australian team and the enduring passion for Test cricket in India.”