Dubai , 26 June 2008The ICC has launched an exciting product trial aimed at distributing top-level cricket footage direct to fans. The product is an ICC-branded, pay-per-view video portal linked to its website from which internet users can stream ICC match highlights from the highly successful inaugural ICC World Twenty20 tournament last year.
Working with leading internet video streaming company Vividas, the ICC initiated the trial in May and it will continue through to 31 July with high-definition footage from the ICC World Twenty20 in South Africa being packaged and streamed direct through the website http://www.worldtwenty20.tv/.
A 60-minute highlights package will cost up to a maximum of US$4 and will be even cheaper in some regions – as low as US$2 for an hour of top-class cricketing action. The technology is supported by the internationally recognised Paypal secure payments system, so users can feel at ease about their online transaction.
ICC General Manager – Commercial, Campbell Jamieson, commented: “We chose to launch this product trial using match footage from the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 because it was such an exciting event. It was the very first event of its kind beginning with Chris Gayle’s century in the opening match and culminating with the thrilling team performances of India and Pakistan in the final.
“As we look ahead to the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan in September 2008 and the second-ever ICC World Twenty20 in England in June 2009, it is a great reminder of the cricket action that awaits us.”
The ICC chose to work with Vividas because it can deliver video content via the internet with previously unachievable ease and quality. Paul Neville, CEO of Vividas Group plc, is confident that the technology will help to continue the globalisation of cricket by taking it to a wider audience. He said: “This is about user flexibility. People can now view this unique and memorable cricket content at times which suit their busy schedules.”
Vividas Group plc is a developer and provider of video technologies, which enable full-screen, high-quality video via the internet or corporate networks without requiring previously installed software. Vividas proprietary technology overcomes the disadvantages of competing solutions that typically offer only partial-screen or poor quality full-screen viewing and generally require the user to install specialist player software.
ICC MEDIA RELEASE