Low Interest Surrounds Bangladesh-Zimbabwe Series, But BTV to Broadcast Matches

Bangladesh Television (BTV) will broadcast the upcoming two-match Test series between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe live. The state-owned broadcaster confirmed via a press release that the coverage will be provided through the satellite production feed designated by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

The series will kick off with the first Test in Sylhet on April 20, while the second and final Test will be held in Chattogram.

Earlier, on March 19, the BCB invited an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the commentary and broadcasting rights. However, no bids were submitted by the April 7 deadline.

A BCB official, speaking anonymously to The Daily Star, revealed,
"Broadcasting companies showed little interest due to doubts over the series’ commercial viability."

It is worth noting that T Sports and GTV—under the Millennium Media Consortium—had long been involved in broadcasting Bangladesh’s home matches. However, their agreement expired after the South Africa series in October last year.

While the BCB is yet to secure a new long-term broadcasting partner, the decision to rely on BTV ensures that local fans will at least have access to live coverage. Despite the private channels' disinterest, the state broadcaster’s involvement has provided some relief to cricket supporters in the country.