Cricket has always been more than a sport; it’s a way of life for millions worldwide. In 2024, cricket proved yet again that its allure transcends boundaries as fans gathered.
Cricket has always been more than a sport; it’s a way of life for millions worldwide. In 2024, cricket proved yet again that its allure transcends boundaries as fans gathered virtually to experience heart-stopping moments, thrilling finales, and record-breaking performances. From the pulsating ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to the soaring popularity of the Women’s T20 World Cup, this year was monumental for the game. With the help of ExpressVPN’s recent report, let’s dive into the most-streamed cricket matches of 2024 and how they have shaped the year’s sports narrative.
Cricket in 2024: A Year of Spectacular Growth
The year 2024 reaffirmed cricket’s position as one of the most loved and widely followed sports globally. With advancements in digital streaming and the accessibility of matches on various platforms, cricket expanded its reach like never before. From nail-biting T20 thrillers to ODI classics, the game witnessed unprecedented growth in viewership, with billions tuning in from across the world.
Key cricket moments from 2024:
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup became the most-viewed T20 tournament in history.
Women’s cricket shattered records with packed stadiums and record-breaking digital engagements.
Streaming platforms like Disney+ Hotstar, Willow TV, and TrillerTV played pivotal roles in making cricket accessible to fans everywhere.
The Biggest Cricket Matches of 2024
Several matches stood out this year for their intensity, historical significance, and sheer entertainment value. These games not only captivated audiences but also showcased cricket at its very best.
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Final: India vs. South Africa
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final in June was a landmark event in cricket history. Played at a packed Lauderhill Stadium in Florida, the match saw India clash with South Africa in a high-stakes battle that drew a global audience of 2.6 billion viewers. With a nail-biting finish, India’s 3-run victory kept fans on the edge of their seats, while Disney+ Hotstar recorded a peak concurrent viewership of 53 million—the highest ever for a cricket match.
Women’s T20 World Cup Final: New Zealand vs. South Africa
Held in October at Dubai International Stadium, the Women’s T20 World Cup final marked a new era for women’s cricket. New Zealand’s dramatic win over South Africa enthralled a crowd of 21,457 spectators, while digital platforms clocked a record 700 million video views during the tournament. This final wasn’t just a game; it was a testament to the meteoric rise of women’s cricket.
India vs. Pakistan: Asia Cup Super Four
Whenever India and Pakistan face off, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Asia Cup Super Four match in Colombo this September was no exception. Watched by over 300 million viewers, the game featured spectacular performances, with Virat Kohli and Babar Azam delivering masterclasses. Streaming platforms, particularly in South Asia, reported unprecedented traffic during this high-voltage clash.
England vs. Australia: Ashes 5th Test
The Ashes series remains cricket’s most storied rivalry, and the 5th Test at The Oval didn’t disappoint. England’s thrilling victory to draw the series 2-2 had fans across the globe glued to their screens. Sky Sports reported a 30% increase in viewership compared to 2023, while Australian audiences broke streaming records on Kayo Sports.
Most Streamed Cricket Matches of 2024
Digital streaming emerged as the dominant force in cricket viewership this year, with fans from across continents turning to platforms for uninterrupted coverage. Here are the most-streamed cricket matches of 2024:
1. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Final
Peak Concurrent Viewership: 53 million (Disney+ Hotstar)
Global Audience: 2.6 billion
Why It Stands Out: A blockbuster finale featuring the world’s best players in an unforgettable clash.
2. India vs. Pakistan, Asia Cup
Peak Concurrent Viewership: 42 million
Streaming Platforms: Disney+ Hotstar, Willow TV
Why It Stands Out: Intense rivalry, star performances, and regional pride on the biggest stage.
3. Women’s T20 World Cup Final
Video Views: 700 million
Why It Stands Out: Record-breaking attendance and a thrilling contest that elevated women’s cricket to new heights.
4. Ashes 5th Test
Peak Viewership: 6 million (Sky Sports)
Streaming Platforms: Kayo Sports, NOW TV
Why It Stands Out: The perfect culmination of a fiercely competitive series.
5. IPL Final: Chennai Super Kings vs. Gujarat Titans
Peak Concurrent Viewership: 35 million
Streaming Platforms: JioCinema
Why It Stands Out: The Indian Premier League never fails to draw massive audiences, and this year’s final was no exception.
What’s Next for Cricket in 2025?
As we close out 2024, cricket fans have much to look forward to in 2025. With the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup slated to take place in India, expectations are sky-high. The growing prominence of women’s cricket and the expansion of T20 leagues across new markets promise to make 2025 even more thrilling. Innovations in streaming technology, such as augmented reality (AR) and interactive fan engagement, are likely to enhance the viewing experience further.
Predictions for 2025:
More countries will embrace hosting major tournaments, spreading the game’s global appeal.
Streaming platforms will continue to break records with immersive fan experiences.
Women’s cricket will achieve greater parity in viewership and revenue.
Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers
Cricket’s journey is one of constant evolution, fueled by the passion of fans and the relentless drive of players. As 2025 approaches, the sport is poised to scale even greater heights, ensuring that the magic of cricket matches continues to captivate hearts worldwide.
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