Disney Star seeks $100 million discount from ICC on T20 World Cup coverage: Report

As uncertainty persists regarding Jay Shah potentially stepping into the role of International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman, one aspect is becoming increasingly evident: Disney Star are reportedly eager to renegotiate their substantial broadcasting agreement with the ICC, which was signed in August 2022 . Should Shah assume the chairmanship, this issue will be one of the major challenges awaiting him in Dubai.

The $3 billion contract between Disney Star and the ICC came into effect with the T20 World Cup held in the US and West Indies. The broadcaster is reportedly seeking immediate relief concerning the championship’s overall valuation for various reasons. This request for renegotiation is distinct from demands for a discount on World Cup delivery, reports Cricbuzz.

Star have reportedly sent two letters to the ICC regarding this matter, which was also addressed during last month’s Annual Conference in Colombo. Outgoing chairman Greg Barclay engaged with ICC officials about it, but ultimately, the decision will lie with the Board.

It is reported that Star are pursuing a discount of over $100 million from the recent World Cup. The broadcaster cites multiple reasons, particularly the washout of the India vs Canada match in Lauderhill, Florida, on June 15. Matches featuring India in World Cups are highly valuable, and the cancellation of this game has led to considerable losses for the broadcaster.

Although other matches, including England vs. Scotland, USA vs. Ireland, and Sri Lanka vs. Nepal, were also abandoned, Star has notably emphasised the India-Canada game. Typically, broadcast agreements do not encompass refund clauses, leaving it uncertain how effectively Star can persuade the ICC.

In addition, Star has raised concerns regarding the low-scoring semi-final between Afghanistan and South Africa on June 26 at Tarouba, where Afghanistan managed only 56 runs in 11.5 overs. South Africa chased down the target in under nine overs, which fell short of the excitement expected from a World Cup semi-final. The ICC recently labelled the pitch at the Brian Lara Academy as unsatisfactory.

Further issues raised include the tournament’s marketing strategies, match scheduling in the US, and the low-scoring nature of the marquee India vs Pakistan game.

Uncertainties remain surrounding the reported request for a comprehensive renegotiation of the deal. Prior to securing the four-year contract in 2022, Star had made an agreement with Zee TV, which ultimately withdrew after its proposed merger with Sony failed, leaving Star to shoulder the full $3 billion obligation.