The deal, which takes effect from January 2013, will see Taj TV assume global television rights to West Indies cricket, with the exception of terrestrial rights within the Caribbean. However, as part of the agreement Taj TV will provide television production for free-to-air stations throughout the Caribbean.
The deal comes amidst encouraging signs for the future of West Indies cricket. The West Indies were the dominant force in the sport throughout the 1970s and 1980s, but recent years have witnessed a downturn in Caribbean cricket both on and off the pitch. However, the national team’s triumph in the World Twenty20 last month has injected fresh hope and WICB president, Dr. Julian Hunte, has hailed the new deal with Taj.
“We are extremely delighted to continue our long standing association with Taj TV Limited who has been our media rights partner previously and with whom we have had a solid and mutually beneficial relationship,” said Hunte. “The West Indies Team has just won the ICC World Twenty20 and the diverse cricket world who hold our team in high esteem will have added demand to see them play in the ensuing years. We are therefore pleased that we have secured this arrangement with this globally reputable company to distribute the media rights to allow fans around the world to see our champion team live and in living colour as they make further strides in world cricket.”
Atul Pande, CEO of Taj’s Ten Sports channel, added: “This deal underscores our commitment to building our cricket business in the subcontinent and globally. The recent upsurge in the West Indies team quality further reinforces our view about our relationship with West Indies cricket going forward.”
