TNT Sports faces backlash over Ashes coverage amid England’s woes
England’s struggling start in the Ashes series has been compounded by criticism aimed at TNT Sports, as viewers express dissatisfaction with the broadcaster’s coverage during the first Test in Perth, reports BritPanorama.
On day one, England collapsed to 172 all out, prompting cricket fans to voice their frustrations on social media. Many were taken aback by the commentators greeting each other with “good morning” despite the match being played in the Australian afternoon, indicating that crucial voices were not present at the venue.
TNT Sports acquired the broadcasting rights after Sky Sports opted out, but the network’s approach has ignited a wave of criticism. One viewer remarked: “Actually grateful that they’ve killed my enthusiasm this early. I can go back to pretending the series isn’t happening. Cricket on TNT Sports isn’t real, it can’t hurt you.” Another added: “Just inexcusable coverage from TNT. The biggest cricket series in the world and you employ two non-cricket commentators, who aren’t even in Australia. Astonishing they thought this would go down well.”
Concerns have also been raised about production quality. A widely shared post highlighted issues such as the absence of Australian commentary, reduced crowd noise, and delays in broadcasting. Despite experts like Sir Alastair Cook and presenter Becky Ives being on-site, primary commentators Alastair Eykyn and Rob Hatch were based in the UK.
Scott Young, a senior executive at Warner Bros Discovery Sports Europe, claimed that Eykyn and Hatch are “huge cricket fans” and that viewers will be unaware of their location during the broadcast. The strategy appears aimed at engaging a broader audience beyond traditional cricket fans, as TNT has held the overseas broadcast rights since the 2017–18 series.
With early reactions suggesting many dedicated cricket supporters are far from convinced, the £30.99-per-month broadcaster faces mounting pressure to adapt its coverage. As England aims to secure an Ashes victory in Australia for the first time since 2010-11, the challenges off the field reflect the urgency of their position on it.
The intersection of broadcasting and performance in sport often breeds scrutiny. Amid all the clamor, the real question for England fans remains: can the team respond to the mounting pressure, both from within and beyond the boundaries of the pitch?
