Triple M abandons summer cricket coverage, deciding a third year would not be commercially viable
COMMENTATORS have been left stunned and shattered by Triple M’s dramatic decision to pull the pin on broadcasting Test cricket.
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COMMENTATORS have been left stunned and shattered by Triple M’s dramatic decision to pull the pin on broadcasting Test cricket.
It’s understood the network had even began entering into deep negotiations with talent, as they eagerly chased Cricket Australia’s radio rights, before announcing yesterday’s sudden backflip.
Southern Cross Austereo chiefs publicly declared that calling the cricket was no longer commercially viable, however it’s understood the network’s relations with CA also notably soured during the negotiations.
Cricket Australia made few friends during their controversial television rights talks, with Channel Ten left seething at their treatment and the relationship with long-term broadcasters Nine also breaking down.
Rumblings that CA executives have butted heads with Southern Cross Austereo is intriguing given the governing body were known to be impressed with Triple M’s fresh and alternative approach to commentary during their two-summer stint on the airwaves.
Cricket Australia’s independent review into organisational culture has pledged to investigate all levels of the business and has said it will consult with key stakeholders, such as media companies, as part of the process.
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Triple M were only Test cricket partners and it’s understood CA are comfortable with the level of competition in play for the radio rights, with Melbourne sport’s station SEN – run by CrocMedia – favoured to lock in a broad new deal across all cricket.
Led by popular commentators Kerry O’Keeffe, Isa Guha and Mark Waugh, Triple M made a genuine impact in the broadcasting game, particularly during last summer’s Ashes, by bringing an entertainment style to their calls.
Chief operating officer John Kelly announced that the money didn’t stack up for Southern Cross to continue.
“After assessing our business and our line-up, we have made a commercial decision to pursue alternative summer programming,” said Kelly.
“We will not be seeking a new broadcast agreement with Cricket Australia.”
Triple M’s head of content, Mike Fitzpatrick said he feels the network achieved something in its short stint on the cricketing airwaves.
“Broadcasting cricket on Triple M for the past two seasons of summer cricket including an Ashes Tour has been great fun and our listeners loved it,” said Fitzpatrick.
“We’ve successfully appealed to both cricket lovers and a broader radio audience, injecting comedy and entertainment, while our diverse line-up delivered knowledgeable and informative commentary.
“I would like to thank all the talented commentators and staff who have worked on our cricket coverage for the past two years and I would like to thank Cricket Australia for the opportunity they have provided us.”