New Delhi: Cricket legends Navjot Singh Sidhu and Sanjay Manjrekar have launched a scathing attack on the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the subpar pitch conditions witnessed in the T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final clash between Afghanistan and South Africa.
The much-anticipated match at Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad, turned into a one-sided affair as Afghanistan succumbed to a meagre 56 runs after being bowled out in just 11.5 overs. South Africa comfortably chased down the target in a mere 8.5 overs, losing only one wicket in the process.
Manjrekar, known for his outspoken commentary, expressed his disappointment during the match. “This is a nightmare for the batters. Afghanistan has been dealt a harsh blow,” he stated. “An unfit pitch has no place in a World Cup semi-final. Let’s not forget the broadcasters who take a huge financial risk by investing heavily in television rights. Players will come and go, but the broadcasters are the ones who make the tournament commercially viable. The ICC has essentially let them down. This one-sided contest will translate to a loss in viewership, ultimately impacting advertising revenue.”
Sidhu echoed Manjrekar’s concerns, emphasizing the detrimental effect on broadcasters who have heavily invested in the tournament. This criticism sheds light on a crucial issue: how pitch preparation directly affects the viewership experience and, consequently, the financial interests of broadcasters.
The financial stakes involved are significant. Disney Star, the official broadcaster of the ICC, secured the media rights for the tournament for a staggering $3 billion, spanning 2024 to 2027. The company further licensed its television broadcasting rights to Zee Entertainment. However, Zee’s withdrawal from the deal following the collapse of its merger with Sony Pictures Networks India throws a wrench into Disney Star’s plans.
Furthermore, The Walt Disney Company is anticipating losses in its streaming business for Q3 FY24, primarily due to the ICC digital rights held by Disney+ Hotstar. Hugh Johnston, CFO of Walt Disney, recently stated during an earnings call, “We are forecasting a loss for Entertainment DTC in the third quarter, with the majority of the reason being Disney+ Hotstar’s ICC cricket rights.”
This incident reignites the debate surrounding pitch preparation in major tournaments. It highlights the need for ensuring a balance between favoring batsmen and bowlers while providing an engaging contest for viewers and maximizing the financial viability of the sport through robust broadcasting partnerships.
