Irish Cricket Union |
||
Global audience awaits Ireland
Barry Chambers When Ireland take on India and South Africa this weekend, the eyes of the world will be upon them. Hundreds of millions of viewers across the globe will be tuned in to see if Ireland can repeat their World Cup heroics. The rights to the game are held by Nimbus, who have issued broadcast licenses to, among others, Neo Sports - India, Doordarshan - India, SuperSports - South Africa, Astro - Malaysia, Vision Asia - Australia and New Zealand, Zee TV - UK, and Setanta - Ireland only. Trent Johnston, the Ireland captain, is well aware of the importance of the games, "These are two vital games for us as we seek to establish ourselves on the world stage. It's a marvellous boost to the players to know that hundreds of millions of fans will be watching us play. It's another motivation for us, and hopefully we'll give the viewers something to be proud of. We are well aware of the importance of television exposure to our sponsors, who I'm sure will be delighted by the global audience." Irish Cricket Union Chief Executive Warren Deutrom was eagerly looking forward to the games, saying, 'The Irish Cricket Union is delighted to be hosting these important matches on behalf of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. To have two great Test Nations such as India and South Africa playing against each other and against Ireland on Irish soil is a terrific boost for the sport on these shores. I understand that these matches cumulatively may constitute the largest ever televised audience for any sporting event on Irish soil, which is a massive source of pride for Irish Cricket, and Irish people in general.'
Have you any comment to make on any aspect of this article? What are your views on any of the opinions expressed in it. Have your say on the CricketEurope Ireland Forum.
|
|