BBC inks new deal with ECB for continued audio coverage of England cricket

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 20 June 2023

The BBC signs a new deal with the ECB keeping live audio coverage of England's home matches with the broadcaster until at least 2028.

The BBC has signed a new deal with the ECB to keep audio coverage of all of England's home matches with the broadcaster until at least 2028.

The four-year extension to the current arrangement covers all of England's home Tests, one-day internationals and IT20s on BBC Radio and BBC Sounds.

The news also means that Radio 5's iconic Test Match Special will reach its 70th anniversary in 2027.

"We know how much listeners cherish cricket on BBC radio and especially TMS with its unique combination, of expert analysis, lively, engaging and entertaining commentary," said BBC Sport director Barbara Slater.

"It is part of the fabric of cricket and we are delighted this new deal ensures TMS continues its great tradition of making cricket accessible to all."

The announcement comes amid the first Test in this year's Ashes, which is finely poised between England and Australia heading into the final day.

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