This could mean that consumers will need multiple subscriptions to follow the England cricket team
Disney is reportedly set to show the England cricket team’s tour of India this winter.
In addition, Amazon is interested in the rights for the next Ashes series, which could force consumers into multiple subscriptions if they want to watch all England matches.
With no UK broadcaster for the tour of India yet, despite it starting next month, the Daily Telegraph reports that Disney may move into the market.
Disney owns Star Sports, which in turn is the rights holder within India and in charge of selling on rights to other territories.
However, Disney is reportedly considering holding onto the rights this time, and screening matches on one of its services. As the owner of popular cricket site ESPNCricinfo, this wouldn’t be completely unknown territory for it.
This could be through Hotstar, which will be available in Europe through Disney+ from 23 February. However, with the series starting on 5 February, it is unclear if this is viable.
In addition, Amazon is thought to be competing with Sky for the Ashes – which takes place in Australia in November. BT Sport showed the last series thanks to a deal with Cricket Australia.