Broadcast of IPL 2018 matches in doubt as BCCI requests ministry for permission

The 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is just two days away. The IPL is back with the eight old heavyweight teams after a long time and the excitement among the fans clearly shows how eager they are for the two-month extravaganza. The money involved in each IPL seems to get bigger with each passing season. Star India bagged the IPL rights last year for a staggering INR 16,325 crore. They also are the producers of the cash-rich league.

Reports have emerged showing that BCCI and IPL’s producer-broadcasters Star had not got the permission to uplink matches. A full broadcast trial is conducted before the start of such mega events. BCCI haven’t got the permission for broadcasting the matches and have written a letter to Smriti Irani, broadcasting minister, regarding the delay.

Amitabh Choudhary writes to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting

Amitabh Choudhary, acting secretary, of BCCI, wrote: “We’re given to understand that the permission has not been granted yet. Given that we’re close to the event, we request your kind intervention in ensuring that the permission is granted urgently to ensure that our Indian audiences are able to view and enjoy the event and to prevent significant commercial losses to the parties involved. The Event is scheduled to commence on April 7, 2018, and we understand Star India Private Limited has made a compliant application to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for permission for temporary live uplinking of the Event from 06 April 2018.”

Solving this matter must be the utmost priority for the BCCI as it may lead to unimaginable losses and may hinder the popularity of the IPL. Fans are waiting for their teams to fight it out for the coveted title. There is a positive buzz around the country as people are getting ready for the festive season.

BCCI is also set to break the billion-dollar barrier with its new media rights deal. Bidding hit USD 926 million on Wednesday in the fight between Star India, Sony and Reliance Jio for television and digital rights for the Indian cricket team and domestic championships from 2018 to 2023. The bid will end on Thursday.

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