Sky TV poised to get more England matches

More of England's home Test and one-day matches are likely to be available to subscribers to satellite broadcaster BSkyB if a joint bid for TV rights is accepted by the England & Wales Cricket Board.

At present, Channel 4 has rights to all but one of England's home Tests, while BSkyB covers one Test, all ODIs and almost all domestic matches.

It is reported that BSkyB has submitted two bids. One would give it exclusive rights to all England's Test and ODI matches, as well as a possible international Twenty20 tournament. The other would have it share rights with Channel 4, but with more Tests on BSkyB than is the case now.

A report in the Guardian last week indicated that Channel 4 were keen to retain some coverage, but with cricket still attracting what are seen as relatively small audiences, they are believed to be receptive to idea of diluting their commitment.

That would suit the ECB. Although a deal with BSkyB would net it more money, there are deep fears that moving all England cricket behind a subscription service would erode the public's awareness as well as reducing the worth to sponsors and advertisers. So a compromise would appear to suit everyone.

The current deal expires at the end of the 2005 season. The ECB had hoped to have the new three-year contract done and dusted by now, but departures of senior officials have delayed the process. One of the key roles - that of commercial director - has still to be filled, and David Collier, the new chief executive, has only been in his role for a month.