Star India wins Indian cricket rights
April 6, 2018
By Colin Mann
Star India has won India International and Domestic media rights for the period from April 15th, 2018 until March 31st, 2023 following an online auction process that lasted three days.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI had invited bids for
- Global Television Rights plus Rest of the World Digital Rights Package
- Indian Subcontinent Digital Rights Package
- Global Consolidated Rights Package.
Star submitted the highest bid of INR 6138 crore (€772m) for Global Consolidated Rights Package. On a flat average, it equates to INR 60.18 cr per international game.
Earlier, Star had also secured the broadcast and digital rights for the VIVO Indian Premier League for the next five years.
“At the outset, our goal was quite clear,” commented Ms. Diana Edulji, member Committee of Administrators (CoA). “We wanted to maintain the highest level of transparency and at the same time, we were looking to achieve the best possible revenue from the deal. On behalf of CoA chairman, Mr. Vinod Rai who was in regular touch with me, I say that we are very happy with the way the entire online auction process has culminated.”
Uday Shankar, Chairman, Star India Private Limited, said: “Having both the IPL and India Domestic and International Rights puts us in a special position. I am confident that Star and BCCI can transform the sporting experience in the country.”
“Before the auction began, we had a specific number in mind. The prices reflect the average value of all three formats of the game. I congratulate the BCCI for putting across a scientific and a thoroughly transparent process. You knew the bids at all times, but at no stage did you know the bidder. Having a brutally transparent process is a major factor for their success.”
CK Khanna, Acting President of the BCCI, said: “I congratulate the Star group for securing BCCI’s Domestic and International Rights. The BCCI shares a strong bond with Star and our association will touch new levels in the years to come. The fact that it took three days to decide a winner proves the deep level of interest in Indian cricket.”
Amitabh Choudhary, Acting Hon. Secretary, BCCI, said: “We tried out the E-Auction for the first time and it was a pleasant experience. By securing the BCCI Domestic and International Rights, Star has now completed a hat-trick. I also express my gratitude to Reliance Industries Limited and Sony Pictures Networks India Private Limited who completed the E-Auction process and made it a success.”
Rahul Johri, CEO, BCCI, said: “The BCCI had put together a transparent process and I am pleased with the outcome. In the process, we were assisted by Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas. The fierce bidding underlines the importance of domestic and international cricket. The supporters of Indian cricket will be treated to some high-quality action not only on the field, but also on television and digital platforms.”