Test-match highlights, T20 internationals, and Hundred matches could be in jeopardy

The BBC is facing the potential loss of yet another major sporting event as rival broadcasters eye the rights to cricket coverage. Just a day after admitting that its Six Nations rugby coverage was under threat, the British Broadcasting Corporation now fears that it may lose Test-match highlights, T20 summer internationals, and Hundred matches.

Financial cutbacks and falling income have put the BBC in a difficult position, forcing it to make tough decisions about its sports coverage. While the BBC still broadcasts elite events such as the Football World Cup, Wimbledon tennis, and the Olympics, The Times reports that the national broadcaster is preparing for a battle over cricket rights when its current deal expires next year.

Channel 4 is seen as the main contender to compete with the BBC for the rights to cricket coverage. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is eager to secure additional funding, and selling a highlights package to a terrestrial station like Channel 4 is the best way to achieve this, given that the live coverage deal with Sky Sports is fixed until 2028.

Currently, the BBC broadcasts Test highlights, two men's T20 internationals, one women's T20 game, and up to ten Hundred matches. However, with financial constraints looming, cricket coverage may be pushed beyond the BBC's reach.

Concerns over Six Nations coverage

This latest development comes on the heels of the BBC's admission that it may lose the rights to broadcast the Six Nations rugby tournament. Barbara Slater, the outgoing BBC director, has described the situation as "incredibly difficult" and stressed the need for a well-funded BBC in order to continue affording sports rights.

The BBC's reputation for broadcasting major sporting events is at stake, and it remains to be seen how the broadcaster will navigate the challenges ahead.