Unprecedented broadcast coverage of Women's WC marks turning point for game

Dubai [UAE], June 20 (ANI): The Women's World Cup 2017 will see unprecedented broadcast coverage as the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the 31-match television and online schedule. The ICC's commitment to accelerate the growth of the game will, for the first time, see every match of the Women's World Cup 2017 broadcast live around the world. The event will be available live in 139 countries on television and close to 200 territories via digital platforms marking a turning point in the history of the women's game. The coverage, produced by ICC TV, will see Spidercam used for the first time ever at Lord's Cricket Ground for the final on July 23. In addition to the Spidercam and a drone for the final, there will be 30 other cameras covering the final and nine other matches, including eight Hawk-Eye ultramotion cameras. A world class commentary panel and a new graphics look will form part of the unique and innovative coverage. Former England captain Charlotte Edwards will be a new star addition to the commentary panel. The stellar line-up also includes Women's World Cup winners Lisa Sthalekar and Melanie Jones, former India captain Anjum Chopra, alongside Ian Bishop, Sanjay Manjrekar and Simon Doull and experienced broadcasters Alan Wilkins and Alison Mitchell. Aarti Singh Dabas, Head of Media Rights, Broadcast and Digital said: "This is the first time in the history of the women's game we will be producing live coverage of all ICC Women's World Cup fixtures. "This is a huge turning point and we are very excited to see the impact it can have on the sport as part of ICC's overall strategic objective to grow women's cricket. What has been impressive is the way broadcasters around the world, led by our global partner Star and local licensee Sky, have committed to coverage and growing the audience." The Women's World Cup will begin from June 24, with hosts England taking on India in Derbyshire. (ANI)