JioStar has successfully integrated all Sports18 channels into the Star Sports Network, marking a significant expansion ahead of the highly anticipated IPL 2025 season. This strategic move, which took effect on March 15, 2025, strengthens Star Sports’ position as India’s leading sports broadcaster, increasing its network to a total of 24 channels.
Major Expansion Ahead of IPL 2025
The newly rebranded channels under the Star Sports umbrella include Star Sports 2 Hindi, Star Sports 2 Hindi HD, Star Sports 2 Telugu, Star Sports 2 Telugu HD, Star Sports 2 Tamil, Star Sports 2 Tamil HD, Star Sports 2 Kannada, and Star Sports Khel. Star Sports Khel will now be available on all DTH platforms and cable networks, ensuring broader access to sports content for viewers across India.
The integration comes after the completion of the mega merger between Reliance Industries Limited, Viacom18 Media Private Limited, and The Walt Disney Company in November 2024. This consolidation brought Viacom18’s media and JioCinema businesses under the umbrella of Star India Private Limited, paving the way for a unified and enhanced sports broadcasting platform.
Enhanced Fan Engagement and Wider Reach
Piyush Goyal, Head of TV Distribution at JioStar, highlighted the importance of live sports in driving television engagement. “Sports, driven by the thrill of LIVE action, is the most powerful catalyst for TV growth and audience engagement in India. Our mission is to bring the excitement of sports to every TV household, ensuring fans across the country are gripped by LIVE sporting moments,” he said.
Mallika Petkar, Head of Strategy & Business Development, Sports, JioStar, emphasized Star Sports’ commitment to expanding the sports fanbase in India. “Our goal is to make sports more accessible, immersive, and impactful, inspiring millions across India. By broadening our reach and delivering high-quality sports content, we aim to deepen fan engagement and attract new audiences,” she stated.
Star Sports’ Expanding Portfolio
Star Sports has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s sports culture, offering comprehensive coverage of major sporting events. Its flagship programs like Cricket Live, Follow The Blues, Match Point, Game Plan, and Countdown have become integral to the viewing experience for sports fans.
The expanded Star Sports Network now offers a diverse range of top-tier events, including:
International Cricket Council (ICC) tournaments
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) matches
Cricket Australia and Cricket South Africa series
TATA IPL and TATA WPL
Indian Super League
Pro Kabaddi League
Premier League
Wimbledon
International Hockey Federation events
Badminton World Federation tournaments
ONE Championship
Big Bash League and SA20
This strategic expansion positions Star Sports to dominate the Indian sports broadcasting market, offering fans a richer and more immersive sports-viewing experience. With the IPL 2025 around the corner, the timing of this move is set to maximize audience engagement and reinforce Star Sports’ dominance in the industry.
