Introduction: A growing concern among cricket fans
The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 has stirred debate off the field as many cricket fans grapple with limited television coverage of the group-stage matches. While national and international fixtures command prime slots, the domestic one-day competition has struggled to secure similar screen time. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has stepped into the discussion, offering his perspective on why this situation persists and what fans might expect going forward.
What Ashwin said and the broader context
Ashwin acknowledged the frustration fans feel when eagerly anticipated domestic clashes aren’t broadcast on traditional television. He emphasized that the decision isn’t made in a vacuum; it’s tied to a complex mix of broadcasting rights, market demand, and the evolving media landscape. According to Ashwin, stakeholders weigh the cost-versus-viewership benefits of televising competitive domestic cricket, especially when many households now rely on digital platforms for sports content.
Rights and revenue driving the decision
Television rights are a critical revenue stream for both organizers and broadcasters. In recent years, many boards have reconfigured how and where fans access India’s domestic cricket. Rights deals often prioritize marquee events with high viewership, while domestic tournaments may receive more emphasis on streaming platforms or regional broadcasts. Ashwin’s point is not to diminish the importance of the Hazare Trophy but to explain the commercial realities that can limit televised coverage for group-stage games.
Digital streaming as a growing alternative
With the rise of OTT platforms and official streaming apps, cricket fans increasingly expect on-demand access. The Hazare Trophy’s group-stage matches can attract a different audience profile than international fixtures, which in turn influences distribution strategies. A strong digital push can offer fans live updates, match analysis, and extended highlights, even when traditional TV slots are limited.
What it means for fans and players
For fans, the short-term impact is fewer opportunities to watch live action on television, potentially reducing visibility for rising stars and domestic heroes. For players, clearer access to telecast and streaming can boost exposure, sponsorship value, and motivation. Ashwin’s remarks hint at a longer-term plan where fans still have access to domestic cricket, albeit through a diversified mix of platforms rather than a single TV feed.
What to expect next for Hakare Trophy coverage
Industry insiders suggest an ongoing recalibration of rights and distribution models. While televised group-stage matches may remain scarce in the near term, expect enhanced digital coverage, including live streaming, behind-the-scenes clips, and post-match analysis. If successful, this hybrid approach could widen the Hazare Trophy’s audience and create more opportunities for young cricketers to showcase their talents on a national stage.
Conclusion: Balancing reach with revenue
Ashwin’s explanation centers on a pragmatic balance between reach, revenue, and evolving viewing habits. Fans who cherish domestic cricket deserve access, and the cricketing ecosystem continues to experiment with how best to deliver it. Whether through improved streaming services, pocket-friendly bundles, or strategic TV partnerships, the aim remains the same: keep the spirit of India’s domestic cricket alive while ensuring the sport’s financial health for years to come.
