beIN Media is set to air all international cricket matches played in Australia after forging a six-year Middle East and North Africa (MENA) rights deal with Cricket Australia.
The move marks the first time the Qatar-based operator has offered cricket on its pay-TV platform, and is in direct competition with Dubai-based rival OSN, which already includes cricket in its Pehla pack.beIN’s cricket coverage will begin on 23 November with the Magellan Ashes Test series. The deal also includes South Africa’s 2018 tour of Australia, India’s 2018-19 tour of Australia, and both the KFC Big Bash League and Rebel Women’s Big Bash League – Australia’s men’s and women’s domestic T20 cricket leagues.
“It is important that we deliver on our promise to broadcast the very best global sports and events, and this is yet another significant milestone on this journey,” said Yousef Al Obaidly, deputy CEO, beIN Media Group.
“We are delighted that Cricket Australia has chosen to partner with beIN and we will guarantee cricket fans across the region access to high quality cricket coverage,” he added.
All games will be available in HD via subscription TV channels and online. In addition, beIN Media’s new 4K channel will enable the broadcast of future matches filmed in Ultra HD.
The content deal includes all international tests, one day and T20 cricket matches for both the men’s and women’s Australian national team in its home country.
