MUMBAI: As Team India under the leadership of Virat Kohli is set to take on Sri Lanka tomorrow (12 August, 2015),Multi Screen Media’s sports expertise Sony Six and Kix have roped in multiple sponsors for the series, which comprise three Test matches.
Sony Six, which acquired the series’ rights for a speculated $3.2 million, has brought on board Cricbuzz as the title sponsor along with other brands such as Idea, Apple, Royal Stag, Cycle Pure Agarbathies and Think and Learn Pvt Ltd. Additionally, the channel’s ad sales team is also in last stages of formalities with a few more brands.
While the India – Sri Lanka series will be Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara’s last encounter with international cricket, it will also be the first real test of Kohli’s leadership skills.
Speaking to Indiantelevision.com, MSM president Rohit Gupta said, “The series is highly awaited as this becomes the first real test of Virat Kohli. Also this is the final outing for Kumar Sangakkara. Test matches have its own flare and audience and we are sure that it will garner good viewership. We have sold the slots at normal rates and are happy with the reaction from advertisers so far.”
Sony Six and Sony Kix business head Prasana Krishnan had earlier said, “We are delighted to partner Sri Lanka Cricket Board as the official broadcaster of the series. The fixture between the two Asian giants is one of the most sought after and keenly followed contests in cricket and we are proud to be bringing it live to our viewers. And it will be interesting to watch how the Indian squad fares under Virat's aggressive style of leadership.”
MSM’s new launch Sony Kix will be telecasting the Hindi feed, while Sony Six will air the English version of the coverage. Krishnan is of the opinion that the India VS Sri Lanka series will play a pivotal role is enhancing the reach of the channel. “The three month old channel has already created a huge demand and the series will certainly enhance its presence,” he said.
A cricket expert on condition of anonymity asserted, “The test will not only be of two teams but of the Test format. Test cricket is still the real test of skill; we saw that in Ashes recently but at the same time the format is losing it commercial value, which poses a threat over it in the long run. As a cricket fan, I am waiting for the series to unfold. I feel Harbajjan Singh will come out of the series with flying colours. Also a great of the game will be hanging his boots, which makes it all the more interesting. Overall, I would like to see quality cricket, packed stadium and overwhelming viewership statistics.”
According to sources in the media planning fraternity, MSM is selling a 10 second ad slot for the India – Sri Lanka series between Rs 50,000 - 75,000.
