Viacom 18 Media Pvt. Ltd-owned over-the-top (OTT) video streaming platform- Voot has won the race to win the streaming rights of cricket reality show Maratha Cricket League T20 (MCL). The tournament aims to provide a platform for undiscovered cricketing talent across the country. Scheduled to start on 15 August. MCL will host 200 participants, international coaches, and eight teams.
Viacom18 Digital Ventures confirmed that Voot seeks to provide diverse content experiences to its users. A differentiated sports talent hunt reality show, that seeks to encourage and build cricketing talent in the country is a fantastic way to connect with users. It also allows them to drive meaningful engagement with sporting enthusiasts. Voot will stream all 34 league matches.
Maratha Cricket League T20 has introduced a ‘Public Voting’ basis in which winners will be decided on the finale scheduled for 5 September 2021. The top 30 performers will be allowed to play from registered cricket clubs in England.
Vincent John, chief executive Maratha Cricket League T20, said, “Over 10, 000 cricketers were allowed to display their talent out of which best 200 will feature in the season one of MCL-T20. Through the platform of Voot, they will be able to tell their stories.”
Voot has been ramping up its sports-related content library with the help of strategic partnerships. In January 2021, it has won the streaming rights for Poker Sports League (PSL). It was a massive coup for them as Zee5, Disney+Hotstar, Jio TV, and MX Player were also in talks to acquire PSL.
Voot is largely known for entertainment shows, so getting the rights of sports reality shows does suggest that the streaming platform is exploring new avenues. While other streaming platforms are chasing the big sporting leagues, Voot looks to set itself a niche in the sporting world much like DAZN of the international scene. Considering the sporting scene continues to expand in India, Voot could get high returns on such types of investments.