MUMBAI: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has signed a four-year deal with the BBC to broadcast live ball-by-ball commentary on England’s international cricket. This contract ensures that Test Match Special (TMS) is guaranteed on BBC up to and including 2013.
ECB commercial director John Perera says, BBC’s radio coverage of international cricket has set the standard for broadcasting across the world. Test Match Special is an iconic programme which has become a part of the very tapestry of British life. We are extremely pleased that we have been able to conclude this deal with BBC Radio and look forward to working with them for the next four years….
He further adds, All sports are finding the tough economic times trying at present,” he added. “So to be able to conclude broadcasting deals with Sky Sports, Five, ESPN Star Sports and now BBC Radio, which together show a cumulative above-RPI rise in revenues, is very satisfying….
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BBC Sport director Roger Mosey states, Test Match Special is one of the crown jewels of BBC Sport. We’re delighted that it will continue for four more years. With the Ashes this summer and then a new contract from 2010, the BBC is proud to be a partner with the ECB in bringing cricket to millions of listeners….
BBC’s broadcast, Test Match Special, or TMS started in 1957 and BBC became the first broadcaster to offer live ball-by-ball commentary. In 2007 its producer, Peter Baxter, stepped down after 34 years in charge, handing over to Adam Mountford.
