In a move aimed at universalizing access for Indian cricket fans, JioStar and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) have announced a strategic collaboration for India’s upcoming tours of England in 2025 and 2026.
Under this agreement, JioStar will exclusively hold the digital streaming rights for all matches, including Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals, which will be available on their OTT platform, JioHotstar. Simultaneously, SPNI will retain the television broadcast rights, showcasing the matches on the Sony Sports Network.
This partnership ensures that fans will have comprehensive coverage across both digital and traditional television platforms. The arrangement kicks off with the highly anticipated five-match Test series in England, commencing on June 20, 2025, in Leeds, followed by matches in Birmingham, Lord’s, Manchester, and concluding at The Oval on July 31, 2025. The collaboration also extends to India’s tour of England in 2026, which includes a white-ball series featuring three ODIs and five T20Is.
Sanjog Gupta, CEO – Sports and Live Experiences at JioStar, commented on the collaboration, stating, “This collaboration is a win-win for all stakeholders involved—especially Indian cricket fans—and serves the broader sporting landscape. The combination of JioHotstar’s deep digital footprint with SPNI’s broadcast network will universalise access to India’s tours of England.”
Gaurav Banerjee, MD and CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are thrilled to bring this fantastic partnership to cricket fans for India’s tour to England! Backed by the power of the Sony TV network and the digital prowess of JioStar – This first-of-its-kind partnership will hope to redefine cricket coverage. Our deep thanks to our partners at the ECB for their support.”
SPNI had previously secured exclusive India rights for all England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) properties through an eight-year deal running until 2031. This collaboration with JioStar marks a significant step in leveraging both platforms to reach a wider audience.
Key Highlights:
- JioStar and Sony Pictures Networks India have teamed up to provide comprehensive coverage of India’s cricket tours of England in 2025 and 2026.
- JioStar will exclusively handle the digital streaming of all matches on JioHotstar, while Sony Pictures Networks India will retain the television broadcast rights.
- The partnership aims to broaden access for Indian cricket fans by utilizing both digital and traditional TV platforms.
- The coverage includes the five-match Test series starting in June 2025 and the white-ball series in 2026.