ICC Media Rights News: For at least another four years, or until 2027, Star Sports will own the worldwide cricket rights. In a closed bidding process that ended on Friday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Saturday (August 27) that Disney Star, the organization’s current official broadcaster, had won the India rights, defeating a field of prominent and well-funded broadcasters who were equally determined.

The ICC said, “Disney Star won following a single round sealed bid process which has yielded a significant uplift to the rights fee from the previous cycle continuing the impressive growth and reach of cricket.”

After the ICC granted its stamp of approval following a meeting in Dubai on Saturday evening, the official announcement was made. Although the ICC has not released the price, it is certain that Star defeated a tough challenge from Viacom 18, Sony Sports, and Zee Network. Any of these competitors had made competitive offers, but the Star’s was almost certainly substantially greater than all of them.

A close second bid, within 10% of the amount mentioned by Star, would have advanced the procedure to the next round, an electronic auction. Online bidding wasn’t required because Star is believed to have stayed far away from the competition.

ICC Chair Greg Barclay said: “We are delighted to continue to partner with Disney Star as the home of ICC cricket for the next four years which has delivered an outstanding result for our Members and will support our ambitious growth plans. They will play a crucial role in the future of our sport and connecting and engaging with more fans than ever before.

K Madhavan, Country Manager & President, Disney Star said: “We are delighted at being able to continue our association with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and look forward to strengthening our partnership by growing the sport of cricket in the years ahead. “With the acquisition of the ICC Digital and TV broadcast rights, Disney Star has further strengthened its status as the premier destination for marquee cricket events in the country.”