BBC agrees four-year ECB deal

The BBC has agreed a four-year deal with the ECB to air live The Hundred matches, and highlights of international cricket.

It will show 16 Hundred matches each season, eight men’s and eight women’s, including the opening fixtures and finals. The BBC has shown the competition since its creation in 2021, sharing the rights with Sky Sports.More investment into The Hundred is expected, with counties selling stakes in the teams to outside investors since the last season. 

In addition to the live cricket, the BBC will also provide highlights of both men’s and women’s red and white ball internationals across TV, iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website. This includes 2025’s clash with India, and multiple Ashes series. 

Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, said: “Cricket isn’t just a game of numbers, it’s a game of stories. From unforgettable Ashes battles to exhilarating last-ball victories in The Hundred, this renewed partnership ensures BBC Sport will continue to bring the drama, emotion, and timeless moments of cricket to life for fans across the UK.”

Tony Singh, ECB chief commercial officer, said: “We’re delighted to be extending our partnership, guaranteeing another four years of live cricket on BBC TV.

“With our shared passion for growing women’s sport, it’s exciting that the BBC will be showing even more live women’s games in The Hundred each year, while viewers will continue to have free access to highlights of England Men’s and Women’s home matches during what promises to be an exciting period for cricket in this country.”

The ECB competitions join the ICC’s on the BBC, with the broadcaster airing highlights of the Women’s and Men’s Cricket World Cups, Men’s and Women’s T20 World Cups and Men’s and Women’s Champions Trophy.