The upcoming Test series between England and Pakistan this October may not be broadcast in the UK due to a lack of bids for broadcasting rights. Despite the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issuing a tender last month, no broadcasters have shown interest, raising the possibility of a TV blackout. The series is scheduled to start on October 7 in Multan.
Sky Sports, which covered England’s last Test series in Pakistan in December 2022, has reportedly informed the PCB that it will not bid this year. TNT Sport has also opted out of negotiations.
In a departure from previous practices, the PCB has engaged a local marketing agency to handle the sale of overseas broadcasting rights, rather than working with global firms like IMG or Pitch International, which had previously secured last-minute deals.
Sky Sports, which held rights to England’s overseas Test matches for nearly three decades, has recently reduced its coverage. The network now focuses on exclusive rights to England’s home series and major events such as next year’s World Cup in Pakistan. High costs and reduced subscriber interest during the football season are cited as reasons for this shift.
TNT Sport, owned by Warner Bros., has also shown disinterest despite acquiring rights for other Test series in Australia, India, and New Zealand. Recent cost-cutting measures and the decision not to renew deals for European rugby reflect a more cautious approach.
If no broadcaster steps forward, UK cricket fans could miss out on the series. This comes in the wake of low attendance at England’s recent Test match against Sri Lanka, underscoring the challenges of maintaining Test cricket’s audience.
