The International Cricket Council is dealing with a major setback ICC ahead of the T20 World Cup, after India’s broadcaster JioStar informed the governing body that it cannot continue its three-year media-rights agreement. The news comes just two months before the tournament begins, raising concerns ICC ahead of one of cricket’s biggest global events.
The T20 World Cup, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is scheduled to start on February 27.
According to The Economic Times, JioStar, backed by Reliance Industries, has cited heavy financial losses as the reason behind its decision. The broadcaster had signed a $3 billion deal covering ICC events until 2027. However, its audited accounts show that provisions for losses on sports-content deals surged from Rs. 12,319 crore to Rs. 25,760 crore within a single year.
Following JioStar’s notice, the ICC has reopened the bidding process for the 2026–29 India media-rights cycle. The board is reportedly seeking around $2.4 billion for the new cycle. Sony Pictures Networks India, Netflix—despite having no experience in live sports—and Amazon Prime Video are being viewed as possible bidders. However, none have made public commitments, given the massive financial investment required.
JioStar’s initial deal covered major tournaments, but losses from the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy are believed to have added severe pressure. The financial impact grew worse after India banned real-money gaming, which had been one of the biggest advertisers in sports broadcasting.
Despite the crisis, JioStar continues to broadcast India’s home series against South Africa.
ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 will take place from February to March 2026. India and Sri Lanka will co-host the event, while Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the tournament’s official ambassador.
ICC President Jay Shah confirmed, “I am pleased to announce that the 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy winning captain Rohit Sharma will be the brand ambassador for the T20 World Cup 2026.”
In other news read more about: PCB to Host PSL Matches at Muzaffarabad Stadium in AJK
With the broadcast situation unresolved, questions remain for the ICC ahead of a crucial tournament. However, preparations for the event continue as scheduled.
