Cricket Australia (CA) says it is “surprised” by media reports claiming that Seven Network is initiating legal proceedings against the organization in an attempt to terminate its $ 450 million television rights deal.
Key points:
- News Corporation publications claim that Seven is initiating a Federal Court action against Cricket Australia
- CA says he will defend himself “strongly.”
- Seven has been cricketing in Australia since 2018
News Corporation publications reported that the network had launched a Federal Court action against CA, alleging that the governing body had committed “multiple, high-quality breaches” during its six-year rights agreement.
Seven has broadcast Test cricket in Australia, women’s internationals, as well as BBL and WBBL since 2018, when it secured the rights of CA’s long-term partner, the Nine network.
The chain is pleased with its test cricket broadcasts, but dissatisfied with the drastic drop in BBL standards.
CA has responded by stating that its last two cricket seasons have been successful, despite “the enormous challenges posed” by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Given the circumstances, CA is surprised that Seven has filed this unjustified action, which will be vigorously defended,” a CA statement said.
“CA remains very proud of the efforts of the Australian cricket family, including players, match officials, sponsors, stadium operators, host governments, staff and volunteers whose hard work, dedication and experience allowed us to offer two exceptional cricket seasons in unprecedented circumstances. “
Seven first filed Federal Court documentation against CA in 2020.
Seven West Media CEO James Warburton once stated that CA was “the most incompetent administration” he had worked with.
CA has desperately tried to revitalize the BBL in an attempt to return the Twenty20 competition to its glory days.
The ownership structure of the clubs remains a major issue at the BBL, with Cricket NSW and Queensland Cricket supporting a privately owned move this week.
AAP / ABC