The Big Bash League (BBL), Australia’s premier domestic T20 cricket tournament, is actively embracing its Indian audience. Alistair Dobson, the General Manager of BBL, recognizes the surge in viewership from India and aims to enhance the league’s appeal in this cricket-crazy nation.
“We had a significant increase in our audiences globally this year, particularly in India off the back of our new media rights deal, in India, which has shown significant growth in the viewership,” Dobson said in a press conference.
The BBL has witnessed a remarkable increase in global audiences, particularly from India. This growth is attributed to a new media rights deal that has amplified the league’s presence across the subcontinent. India’s passionate cricket fans represent an untapped reservoir of support and viewership for international leagues.
To cater to Indian cricket enthusiasts, the BBL has taken strategic steps:
Indian Commentators: Renowned Indian cricket commentators like Ravi Shastri and Harsha Bhogle have been part of BBL broadcasts. Their expertise and insights add value to the league and resonate with Indian viewers.
“It was amazing to have those guys commentating in the BBL. They bring such expertise and interest to our game and they, from all reports, really loved what they saw. And we’re hoping to see a few global commentators out here again this summer and obviously with a big international summer ahead,” Dobson mentioned.
Indian Players: Indian cricket stars, including Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana, have graced the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). Their presence not only elevates the league’s quality but also captures significant attention from Indian fans.
“We’re very fortunate in the WBBL that Indian players of, you know, whether that’s Harmanpreet Kaur for the (Melbourne) Renegades or others that have been in our competition and had such skill and capability and leadership.”
In a bid to capture the growing Indian audience, the Big Bash League (BBL) and Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) are focusing on adding more Indian flavor to their tournaments.
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“So we’re always working closely with other boards around the world about how we can grow our competition and make it as accessible as possible and that won’t stop,” Dobson added.
Untapped Market: India’s cricket-obsessed population makes it a crucial market for Australian cricket leagues. By infusing an Indian flavour, the BBL aims to diversify its fan base and create a deeper connection with viewers across borders.
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, Australia’s premier domestic T20 cricket tournament, is actively embracing its Indian audience. Alistair Dobson, the General Manager of BBL, recognizes the surge in viewership from India and aims to enhance the league’s appeal in this cricket-crazy nation.){kind=link}