Cricket has always been more than just a game. In the last year, it has proven its ability to connect billions of fans, break streaming records, and elevate sports streaming to new heights. As the global appetite for live sports grows, cricket has become a driving force, captivating audiences with its drama, rivalries, and unforgettable moments. Let’s take a closer look at how cricket shaped the sports streaming landscape in 2024 and what lies ahead in 2025.
Cricket’s Record-Breaking Year in 2024
According to ExpressVPN’s report on the most streamed sports events of 2024, last year was nothing short of monumental for cricket. The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States and the West Indies, took center stage as one of the year’s most-watched events. With a staggering 2.6 billion global viewers, the tournament set new benchmarks for engagement and reach.
The final between India and South Africa broke streaming records, with Disney+ Hotstar logging 53 million concurrent viewers, making it the most-streamed cricket match in history. The World Cup’s success wasn’t limited to South Asia; the novelty of U.S.-based matches captured the imagination of fans in non-traditional cricket regions like Canada, the UAE, and the Caribbean.
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup also witnessed unprecedented growth. Hosted in the UAE, it drew over 91,000 fans to stadiums, a 30% increase from the previous edition. The digital engagement was just as impressive, with 700 million video views, signaling growing global enthusiasm for women’s cricket.
The Biggest Cricket Matches That Boosted Sports Streaming in 2024
2024 saw several cricketing events transcend traditional viewership and set the tone for the future of sports streaming:
- India vs. Pakistan in the T20 World Cup group stage captured the attention of millions globally. Rivalries like these continue to be a magnet for broadcasters and streaming platforms, creating massive surges in viewership.
- The T20 World Cup Final became a historic moment, with fans tuning in from across the world, breaking multiple records in digital engagement.
- The Asia Cup, another marquee tournament, brought regional cricketing powerhouses together, achieving notable success in terms of live streaming numbers.
Beyond these events, cricket’s digital-first approach has led to significant investments from streaming platforms like Disney+ Hotstar, Paramount+, and TrillerTV. Fans now have access to more live matches, replays, and behind-the-scenes content than ever before, creating a richer viewing experience.
What to Expect in 2025: A New Era for Cricket Matches
The excitement around cricket isn’t slowing down as 2025 kicks off. Fans have plenty to look forward to this year:
- ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Set to be hosted by Pakistan, this iconic tournament will see the top eight cricketing nations compete for glory. The return of the Champions Trophy promises intense competition and a likely surge in global streaming.
- The Ashes 2025: One of cricket’s oldest rivalries, England vs. Australia, will once again take the stage. As always, the Ashes will blend tradition with modern digital consumption, pushing streaming viewership higher.
- IPL 2025: The Indian Premier League continues to dominate cricket’s global landscape. With franchise cricket growing rapidly, the IPL’s next season is expected to shatter its own streaming records. Emerging markets like the U.S. and Europe are likely to see increased viewership as more international players join the league.
- Women’s Cricket World Cup: The ongoing momentum in women’s cricket will culminate in the 2025 World Cup, which promises to build on the record-breaking engagement from last year.
What Cricket Fans Can Look Forward to in 2025
Cricket’s evolution in 2025 will not only be about the matches but also about the technology that enhances fan experiences. Streaming platforms are already experimenting with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) features, allowing fans to feel closer to the action. AI-driven highlights, real-time analytics, and interactive content are set to redefine how we consume cricket matches.
Moreover, with the ICC exploring new markets and partnerships, we can expect cricket to grow in regions where it has traditionally been less prominent. The integration of cricket into global streaming platforms ensures that fans across the world can access matches seamlessly, fueling the sport’s growth.
The Future of Cricket and Streaming
Cricket is more than a sport; it’s a global phenomenon that transcends borders, cultures, and time zones. As we move into 2025, it’s clear that cricket will continue to lead the charge in shaping the future of sports streaming. With landmark events on the horizon and technological advancements changing how we watch the game, fans have every reason to be excited.
Whether it’s the thrill of a last-ball finish or the camaraderie of supporting your team, cricket’s magic remains timeless. In 2025, expect more records, more drama, and more reasons to tune in to cricket matches like never before.