The US’ Major League Cricket (MLC) will be exclusively broadcast on Amazon Prime Video in Australia and New Zealand for the 2024 season.
All 25 games will be showcased on Amazon’s direct-to-consumer streaming service in the Southern Hemisphere countries, with the company stating that there will be no additional costs to watch MLC games.
The current league season, which started 5 July, consists of six teams and will feature several Australian and New Zealand internationals such as Pat Cummins and Rachin Ravindra.
Vijay Srinivasan, Chief Executive of MLC, stated: “We are thrilled to announce Prime Video as our broadcast partner for Major League Cricket in New Zealand and Australia.
“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey to grow the season, which is in its second year, as well as bring the excitement of cricket to fans across the globe.
“Prime Video has solidified its position as a premier destination for cricket enthusiasts in Australia and New Zealand, showcasing major events such as the World Cup and acclaimed series such as The Test.
“MLC eagerly anticipates joining this platform, poised to contribute thrilling cricket action to its global audience through Prime Video’s extensive reach and expertise.”
Securing broadcasting rights for two countries with high participation rates for cricket bodes well for the league’s international growth, as well as its domestic growth.
The MLC secured ESPN, the largest US sports network, as its exclusive broadcaster for the US and will look to continue its early growth with the 2024 season only the second campaign since its inception in 2023.
India, another huge market for cricket, will also gain coverage for the MLC season via Sony Pictures Network after it acquired rights to broadcast the league season.
Hushidar Kharas, Head of Prime Video for Australia and New Zealand, added: “The feedback from cricket fans in Australia for our first major event, ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, has been really positive and we are delighted to expand our live sports offering through the Cognizant Major League Cricket.
“We are also excited to offer our customers in New Zealand the first live sports event included in their Prime Video membership.”
