In a major development for Indian cricket fans and digital streaming, JioHotstar has secured the exclusive digital rights to the highly anticipated India vs England Test series, set to begin on June 20, 2025, at Headingley, Leeds. This landmark deal ensures that millions of viewers across India can catch every ball of the five-match series live on JioHotstar’s digital platform, while Sony Sports Network retains the television broadcast rights.
The Deal: How JioHotstar Landed the Digital Rights
A Landmark Sublicensing Agreement
After nearly a month of negotiations, JioHotstar finalized a sublicensing deal with Sony Entertainment Network (Culver Max Entertainment Private Limited), which holds the primary broadcast rights for England cricket until 2031. The agreement, reached in the last 24 hours, marks a rare collaboration between two of India’s biggest sports broadcasters, with Sony retaining linear (TV) rights and JioHotstar taking over the digital streaming for this marquee series.
Sony Sports Network: Continues to telecast the series on television.
JioHotstar: Exclusive digital streaming rights for all five Tests.
ECB’s Role in the Agreement
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) played a pivotal role in facilitating this sublicensing arrangement, ensuring maximum reach for the series in the Indian market.
What This Means for Indian Cricket Fans
Uninterrupted Streaming Across Devices
With JioHotstar now the official digital home for the India-England Test series, fans can:
- Stream matches live on mobile phones, tablets, smart TVs, and desktops.
- Enjoy high-definition coverage and exclusive digital features.
- Access match highlights, expert analysis, and behind-the-scenes content.
Sony Sports Remains the TV Destination
Traditional viewers can continue to enjoy the series on the Sony Sports Network, which retains the television broadcast rights for all matches.
Series Schedule: India Tour of England 2025
1st Test: June 20-24 – Headingley, Leeds
2nd Test: July 2-6 – Edgbaston, Birmingham
3rd Test: July 10-14 – Lord’s, London
4th Test: July 23-27 – Old Trafford, Manchester
5th Test: July 31-August 4 – The Oval, London
This series marks India’s first Test assignment after the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, with Shubman Gill leading a new-look squad.
The Future: Deal Extends to 2026 White-Ball Tour
The partnership between JioHotstar and Sony isn’t limited to the 2025 Test series. The agreement also covers India’s 2026 white-ball tour of England, which will feature three ODIs and five T20Is, all to be streamed live on JioHotstar.
FAQs
1. Where can I watch the India vs England Test series online?
You can stream all five Tests live and exclusively on JioHotstar’s digital platform.
2. Will the India-England series be available on TV?
Yes, Sony Sports Network retains the TV broadcast rights and will telecast the series live on its channels.
3. Does this deal include future India-England matches?
Yes, the agreement extends to India’s 2026 white-ball tour of England, including three ODIs and five T20Is.
4. When does the India vs England Test series start?
The first Test begins on June 20, 2025, at Headingley, Leeds.
5. Who facilitated the digital rights deal?
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) played a key role in enabling the sublicensing agreement between Sony and JioHotstar.
Conclusion
JioHotstar’s acquisition of the digital streaming rights for the India-England Test series is a game-changer for cricket fans, offering seamless access to one of the sport’s most storied rivalries. With Sony Sports Network continuing as the TV broadcaster, fans now have more options than ever to follow every moment of the action. As the series approaches, excitement is building for a new era of digital cricket viewing in India.