Cricket holds a special place in the British sporting landscape, and for generations, the BBC has been at the core of how fans experience the game. From iconic radio commentary to digital innovation and live television broadcasts, BBC Cricket continues to shape the way the nation follows its favourite summer sport. As the 2025 season unfolds, the BBC’s coverage remains as relevant and engaging as ever, adapting to new formats, shifting broadcast rights, and the changing expectations of a diverse audience.
A New Era for BBC Cricket Coverage
The summer of 2025 marks the beginning of a fresh four-year partnership between the BBC and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). This deal ensures that cricket fans across the UK will continue to enjoy highlights of all England men’s and women’s international matches on television, iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website. The agreement also secures live coverage of The Hundred, the ECB’s innovative short-form competition, with eight double-header events each season broadcast live on BBC platforms. These include both the opening games and the finals, providing free-to-air access to some of the most exciting moments in the domestic cricket calendar.
While the BBC no longer holds live rights to England’s home internationals—those have moved to Sky Sports and, for selected T20s, Channel 5—the broadcaster retains a vital role in making cricket accessible to the widest possible audience. In-play video clips, expert analysis, and written commentary keep fans up to date, while daily highlights ensure that no one misses out on the drama, whether it’s a gripping Test at Headingley or a last-ball thriller in The Hundred.
Test Match Special: A National Institution
No discussion of BBC Cricket is complete without mentioning Test Match Special (TMS), the beloved radio programme that has provided ball-by-ball commentary since 1957. TMS remains a cornerstone of the BBC’s cricket offering, with coverage of every England home international, major ICC tournaments, and county matches. The team—featuring voices like Jonathan Agnew, Alex Hartley, and Tymal Mills—delivers not just expert analysis but also the warmth, humour, and storytelling that have made TMS a cultural touchstone.
The BBC’s audio deal with the ECB, extended through to at least 2028, guarantees that TMS will continue to reach listeners across the country, whether they’re tuning in from the stands, their cars, or their living rooms. For visually impaired fans, the BBC’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its provision of audio-descriptive commentary, ensuring that everyone can share in the excitement of the summer’s biggest matches.
The Hundred: Bringing Cricket to New Audiences
Since its launch in 2021, The Hundred has aimed to attract new fans to cricket with its fast-paced, family-friendly format. The BBC has played a central role in showcasing The Hundred, airing both men’s and women’s matches live on television, radio, and online. The broadcaster’s coverage features a blend of established commentators and current players, offering fresh perspectives and on-the-ground insight. The inclusion of women’s matches alongside men’s fixtures has been a significant step in promoting gender equality and growing the women’s game.
Although viewership for The Hundred’s men’s competition dipped by 25% last year, the women’s tournament held steady, reflecting the growing interest in women’s cricket and the importance of free-to-air coverage for building audiences. The BBC’s commitment to expanding live women’s sport is a cornerstone of its new deal with the ECB, ensuring that the next generation of cricketers and fans can see themselves represented on the biggest stage.
Digital Innovation and Comprehensive Coverage
The BBC’s cricket coverage extends far beyond live broadcasts and radio commentary. The BBC Sport website and app provide real-time updates, in-play clips, written reports, and expert columns, making it easy for fans to follow every wicket, run, and controversy. This digital-first approach ensures that cricket remains accessible to younger audiences and those who prefer to follow the game on the go.
During major series, such as England’s current Tests against India, the BBC offers ball-by-ball commentary, in-play video highlights, and daily recaps on iPlayer and BBC Two. The broadcaster’s ability to blend tradition with innovation—combining the nostalgia of TMS with the immediacy of digital media—keeps it at the forefront of cricket coverage in the UK.
Conclusion
Looking ahead, the BBC’s role in cricket is set to remain significant, even as the landscape of sports broadcasting evolves. The new rights deal with the ECB guarantees that fans will continue to enjoy free access to highlights, live coverage of The Hundred, and the unique perspective of Test Match Special until at least 2028. The broadcaster’s focus on inclusivity, innovation, and storytelling ensures that cricket will remain a shared national experience, bringing together communities and generations.
As Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum lead England into a defining run of Tests against India and Australia, and as The Hundred continues to evolve, the BBC will be there to capture every moment, every story, and every emotion that makes cricket such a beloved part of British life. Whether through the crackle of a radio, the glow of a television, or the swipe of a smartphone, BBC Cricket remains the heartbeat of the game in the UK.
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