In a testament to the undying passion for cricket in India, Disney recently revealed staggering viewership figures for the ICC World Cup. A whopping 518 million Indian users tuned in via traditional television channels, while an additional 59 million opted for the digital experience through the Hotstar app.
According to the Broad Audience Research Council (BARC) data released on Thursday. The numbers not only reflect the nation’s ardent love for the game but also underscore the evolving landscape of sports consumption in the country. The synergy between traditional TV broadcasts and modern streaming services is reshaping how audiences engage with major sporting events.
The rise of digital platforms is reshaping how fans consume sports content. Disney’s Hotstar, a prominent player in the digital streaming arena, recorded an impressive 59 million viewers for the ICC World Cup. This not only signifies a substantial digital audience but also showcases the convenience and flexibility that online platforms offer to modern viewers.
The Hotstar app’s success in attracting such a significant audience highlights the growing trend of on-the-go sports consumption. Fans are increasingly turning to mobile devices to catch live action, enabling them to follow their favorite teams and players regardless of their physical location.
Cricket Consumption in India:
As cricket continues to reign supreme in India, the viewership numbers for the ICC World Cup on both TV and the Hotstar app mark a defining moment. The coexistence of these platforms showcases the adaptability of Indian cricket fans, who are embracing the flexibility offered by digital platforms without abandoning the cherished tradition of watching cricket on television.
This dual success serves as a blueprint for future sporting events, signaling the importance of a comprehensive approach to broadcasting that accommodates the preferences of a diverse and tech-savvy audience. As the boundaries between traditional and digital media continue to blur, the way we experience and celebrate cricket in India is undergoing a dynamic transformation.