DLF IPL Season 3 matches to be broadcast live on YouTube

The third season of DLF IPL becomes the first major sporting event to go live on the Internet, where 60 matches will be shown over 45 days

DLF IPL Season 3 has tried to do something unparalleled by adding a social media edge to its broadcasting format. Google India has inked an exclusive deal with the Indian Premier League and its licensing partner, Global Cricket Ventures, which will allow live streaming of matches on a dedicated IPL channel on YouTube at www.youtube.com/ipl.

DLF IPL Season 3 matches to be broadcast live on YouTube

According to the agreement, Google will enjoy the online rights for the IPL content for the coming two years. The sponsorship and advertising revenues of the site will be collectively shared by Google and IPL.

Cricket is not only a sporting event in India - it is worshipped with religious fervour. Moreover, a vast section of the world enjoys the sport. Such an initiative taken by these two giants will have 60 matches streamed live over 45 days and this first-of-its-kind partnership will reveal the status of an event beyond boundaries. The re-broadcast options will, however, be available only in the US.

Shailesh Rao, managing director, Google India and Media & Platforms, Asia Pacific, says "To build awareness about the sport across the world, who can be a better partner than DLF IPL? YouTube has 400 million users worldwide and it becomes a great platform for sports and entertainment companies to take their content globally and also a chance for advertisers to interact on a larger scale through interactive video formats."

One can also enjoy special content that includes match highlights, player interviews, fall of wickets, top sixes of the match, award ceremony, pitch reports and much more on YouTube.

"This partnership will give the league a global reach on a single platform. YouTube will become the biggest virtual stadium in the world, where people can access their favourite sport as per their convenience. Fans will be able to interact with players and owners of the team, which will be an added attraction on YouTube. This is a path breaking move as the on-field action takes a giant leap on newer forms of technology," says Lalit Modi, chairperson and commissioner, Indian Premier League.

During this IPL season, YouTube has planned to offer groundbreaking advertising opportunities to get substantial online brand associations, especially to grab many eyeballs.

A limited number of sponsors will get advertising options because of limited availability. They can sponsor live streamed matches, match re-broadcasts and highlights, too. Advertisements will be possible on YouTube homepage, the live stream page and video ads.

Also, a special IPL branded Orkut community will host live chats with the Man of the Match, team owners, contests and match polls. In addition, clips of highlights and video content will be available on YouTube mobile.

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