The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has joined with cricket fans across the region to encourage television companies operating in the Caribbean to secure the television broadcast rights for the ongoing West Indies v New Zealand Test, ODI and T20 series.
In a press release yesterday, the WICB said it recognizes that the region continues to experience financial challenges; however cricket fans are disheartened that they are not able to view the West Indies team play against New Zealand.
“From response there are legions of fans who are desirous of viewing the matches and that represents obvious interest and demand,” the WICB said. The WICB press release came following an enquiry by Stabroek News with the board over the lack of TV coverage.
Observers point out that what is worse is that there isn’t even radio commentary on the tour. Radio commentary had been a mainstay for local fans during the Windies’ glory years but it appears that CMC and regional stations have been unable to strike a deal.
Through its broadcast rights deal with TAJ TV, the WICB says it has worked to ensure that when the West Indies team plays at home the television broadcast is provided to CMC free-to-air partner stations so that fans can view the matches live.
“Contrary to some misinformation, the WICB does not own or control the broadcast rights for the West Indies versus New Zealand series or any series played outside the region,” the press release said.
However, the cricket board looks forward to cricket fans being able to view the matches on television with the favourable consideration and intervention of television companies.
