TVNZ has unveiled their commentary team for the upcoming home summer of cricket with numerous former Black Caps and White Ferns, as well as top commentator Scotty Stevenson, involved.
TVNZ acquired broadcasting rights to domestic and international cricket in Aotearoa earlier this year following the closure of Spark Sport and said in a statement this morning they were looking to build off a “strong foundation” left by their predecessor.
“It is always a privilege to cover cricket in Aotearoa, and to work with a commentary and broadcast team that has developed such a unique style and chemistry is special,” Stevenson said.
“We know the White Ferns will provide us with the perfect opening to a bumper season that encompasses the best of New Zealand cricket, internationally and domestically."
Along with Stevenson, Craig McMillan, who played 260 international matches for New Zealand, dual-international and World Cup winner Rebecca Rolls, and Grant Elliott, all return to the commentary team, but this time for Te Reo Tātaki.
Joining them will be former Black Caps Test opener and broadcaster Mark Richardson as well as former White Ferns Katey Martin and Frankie Mackay, who will juggle her commentary around playing for the Canterbury Magicians.
“I’m looking forward to being back commentating the game I love and building on what we’ve been creating for the last couple of years with the team. It’s exciting that we’re able to bring the game to a wider and new audience on TVNZ,” Richardson said.
“There are great international matches lined up this year for both squads alongside the domestic league, it’s going to be a fantastic summer of cricket ahead.”
Alongside the core commentary team, international experts will join for international matches, including former English spin bowler Alex Hartley, Bangladeshi caller Athar Ali Khan and South Africa’s first female television cricket commentator, Kass Naidoo.
TVNZ’s General Manager, Sport and Events, Melodie Robinson said she was excited about the season ahead.
"Our experienced commentary team’s passion for the game and knowledge is showcased every time they call a match, and viewers can see that.”
Viewers will enjoy Black Caps and White Ferns T20s on TVNZ 1 and ODIs and Tests on DUKE too, along with the domestic T20 league, Dream 11’s Super Smash.
All matches will also stream live on TVNZ+ giving viewer’s choice over how and where they watch their favourite sport.
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