Just two months before the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka (Feb 7 – Mar 8), the International Cricket Council (ICC) has been hit by a major setback. JioStar India has officially announced its withdrawal from the media rights deal, citing significant financial losses as the reason.
This sudden decision raises concerns about the broadcasting of the tournament in India, one of cricket’s largest markets. The ICC has now begun the search for an alternative broadcaster to ensure uninterrupted coverage.
💰 The Magnitude of the Deal
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JioStar signed the rights in 2023 for the 2024–27 season, inheriting the contract from Disney’s Star India.
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The deal was reportedly worth $3 billion (~₹25,000 crore).
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Financial shortfalls, compounded by the rising dollar, have made it unviable for JioStar to continue.
🔍 ICC Seeks New Broadcasters
The ICC has initiated a new sales process for the 2026–29 India media rights, with a target of around $2.4 billion. Several major platforms, including:
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Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI)
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Netflix
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Amazon Prime Video
have been approached, but no agreements have been finalized yet. Reports suggest that the high price tag has deterred potential bidders, leaving ICC in a tight spot ahead of one of the sport’s biggest events.
The clock is ticking for the ICC as it races to secure a broadcaster for the T20 World Cup 2026, which promises massive viewership in India and globally. Fans and stakeholders alike are closely monitoring the developments.
