Getty Images
England’s 2022 International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup final against Pakistan will be shown on free-to-air (FTA) in the UK after pay-TV network Sky agreed to share coverage of the showpiece with Channel 4.
In an echo of the triumphant 2019 Cricket World Cup, Sky has opted to waive its status as exclusive rights holders by inviting in a terrestrial partner.
More than eight million domestic viewers witnessed the dramatic Lord’s triumph three years ago and hopes will be high for more bumper figures as England attempt to unite the two white-ball trophies for the first time.
Jonathan Licht, managing director of Sky Sports, said: “We know the importance of this game, so we are pleased to be able to share this great sporting moment with our whole nation thanks to our strong relationship with Channel 4. Whether you’re supporting England or Pakistan, this will be one to remember.”
Ian Katz, chief content officer at Channel 4, added: “We are thrilled that Channel 4 and Sky have struck this deal to make another great national sporting moment available on free-to-air television to audiences across the UK.
“As the days draw in, some thrilling international cricket from the southern hemisphere should offer some welcome cheer.”
An 8am start time and a clash with Remembrance Sunday may make it hard to achieve similar numbers to the 2019 triumph on home soil but the simulcast will guarantee the occasion does not take place behind a paywall.
Channel 4 held the domestic broadcast rights for Test cricket between 1999 and 2005 and made a brief return to the field when it showed the 2021 Test tour of India.
Enjoying SportsPro content? Create your account and get enhanced access to all the latest stories.
Have an account? Log in
Already registered?
Don’t have an account?