Global Eagle Entertainment (GEE) has signed a licensing deal with the International Cricket Council (ICC) to broadcast major events aboard cruise ships using its global VSAT networks.
The deal also includes transmission of ICC events on board commercial flights worldwide.
Under the four-year deal GEE will provide 1,140 hours of live cricket programmes, including the 2017 Champions Trophy and 2019 Cricket World Cup, as well as 172 additional events.
Global Eagle Entertainment content distribution and purchasing senior vice-president Jim Griffiths said: “Cricket is a leading global sport, and the ICC broadcasts will be well received by devoted fans and newcomers alike.
“We are particularly excited that one of the world’s most viewed events, the Cricket World Cup, is among the broadcasts.”
Last year, the company signed separate global distribution contracts with Lagardère Sports and Premiership Rugby to broadcast their sporting events.
International Cricket Council commercial general manager Campbell Jamieson said: “A key component of the ICC strategy is to create an environment where cricket is exciting to play and watch, while improving the quality and reach of the international game.
“Our partnership with GEE enables us to expand our live broadcast reach to include airline and maritime audiences across the globe, which is an exciting opportunity.”
Representing 105 members, the ICC acts as the global governing body for cricket, as well as being responsible for organising major international tournaments such as the ICC World Cup and Women’s World Cup, the ICC Champions Trophy and the ICC Men’s and Women’s World T20.
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