BCCI Opts Against Separate Rights Package for Indian Women’s Cricket Team
Despite the BCCI bagging a windfall of Rs 951 crore from WPL Media Rights, they have decided to not offer a separate package for the Indian Women’s Cricket Team. Matches involving Harmanpreet Kaur’s side have been clubbed in with other series, such as the Ranji Trophy, Irani Cup, Duleep Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, Deodhar Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. This policy is a continuation of the previous policy, despite the increased relevance of the women’s game in the country.
Women’s Games Offered for Free
Essentially, the BCCI is offering women’s games for free. With no separate rights and a deal for men’s cricket paramount, rights holders have free access to women’s cricket matches in India. This is despite the BCCI selling WPL Media Rights for a staggering Rs 951 crore, with Viacom18 bagging the rights.
ITT Released by BCCI
The ITT released by BCCI on the Media Rights clubbed women’s international matches with other domestic fixtures and India A games held in the country. This is not an uncommon practice, but the decision is a little surprising given the rise in relevance of the women’s game in the country.
Conclusion
Despite the BCCI selling WPL Media Rights for a large sum, they have decided to not offer a separate package for the Indian Women’s Cricket Team. Instead, matches involving Harmanpreet Kaur’s side have been clubbed in with other series, with the rights holders having free access to women’s cricket matches in India. This decision is a continuation of the previous policy, and is slightly surprising given the rise in relevance of the women’s game in the country.