A new, four-year partnership between NZC and SENZ announced today will provide comprehensive live radio coverage of all BLACKCAPS and WHITE FERNS home international games, as well as all finals from the Domestic men’s and women’s Dream11 Super Smash and one-day competitions.

SENZ has already forged a reputation as New Zealand’s premier sports media channel, providing cricket fans with live coverage of the recent ICC World Test Championship final between Australia and India, and the current Ashes Series in England. 

Its commentary can be accessed via a nationwide network of terrestrial frequencies, as well as through its digital app and online news site. Kiwi sportscasting doyen and Central Stags alumnus IAN SMITH, who headlines SENZ’s daily morning show, said the partnership was a great outcome for cricket fans nationwide.
 

PHOTOSPORT

“SENZ has supported cricket greatly throughout our entire network, and this partnership will take it to the next level,” said Smithy.

“I can't wait to cover all the action in the coming years.

"It's exciting that this partnership not only includes internationals, but also has a strong focus on Domestic cricket.”

NZC chief executive David White said that as a dedicated sports media platform, SENZ represented a most fitting audio rights partner for the game in New Zealand. 

PHOTOSPORT

“This is great news for the thousands of cricket fans who want to follow the game while driving, working, painting the roof, or who otherwise choose to take the live radio feed,” he said. 

“Historically, cricket has strong links to radio commentary and I’m sure listeners will be very pleased with the quality of SENZ’s coverage.” 

SENZ chief executive Sam Bingley said he could not be more excited by the partnership. 

“We’re dedicated to providing our audience with extensive coverage, which this partnership certainly delivers across international and Domestic cricket.

“Through this partnership we aim to bring the excitement of cricket to a wider audience and strengthen the sport's connection to the fans.” 

PHOTOSPORT

Mike Lane, General Manager, The Alternative Commentary Collective (ACC), said his team was meanwhile excited to be back through the online audio commentary stream, also available this summer. 

“It all started for The Alternative Commentary Collective back in 2015 with live and unfiltered cricket commentary on iHeartRadio, so it’s mildly emotional to be back calling the game we love,” said Lane. 

“Cricket is a lifelong passion for many of The ACC team, so look out for a stunning return to audio commentary – we guarantee it will be like no other coverage you have ever heard.”   

NZC will announce its 2023/24 home international schedule tomorrow.

Article added: Monday 17 July 2023