Cricket Frenzy: Disney+ Hotstar Breaks Records in ICC World Cup 2023 Semi-Final
Record-Breaking Viewership: A Spectacle Unfolds
In a cricketing extravaganza at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, the semi-final clash between India and New Zealand not only witnessed an intense battle on the field but also set a new viewership benchmark. Disney+ Hotstar achieved a staggering 5.3 crore concurrent viewers, marking a historic moment in live sports streaming.
1. Breaking the Previous Record
The previous record of 4.3 crore concurrent viewers during the India vs Pakistan match was surpassed, showcasing the growing popularity of online streaming platforms for live cricket action.
2. Unprecedented Viewership Surge
From the first innings to the gripping chase, viewership soared from 5.1 crore to an impressive 5.3 crore, emphasizing the unwavering passion of Indian cricket enthusiasts.
Journey to the Finals: A Nation United in Excitement
As India secures a spot in the ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup finals after a decade, the anticipation on Disney+ Hotstar reaches new heights. The finals against the winner of Australia and South Africa promise another milestone in concurrent viewership.
1. Sajith Sivanandan’s Perspective
Sajith Sivanandan, Head of Disney+ Hotstar India, acknowledges the unprecedented support, stating, “The 5.3 cr concurrent viewers for India’s semifinal against New Zealand exceeds the combined population of Australia and New Zealand by more than 1.5 times!”
2. Technological Triumph
The achievement is not just a triumph of technology; it reflects the profound connection between viewers and the platform, setting new standards in live sports streaming.
Record Series: A Recap of Breakthroughs
1. From IPL to ICC World Cup
The journey of breaking records began during the Indian Premier League (IPL), with a record 3.2 crore concurrent viewers during the IPL title clash.
2. Ad-Supported Streaming Strategy
Disney+ Hotstar’s decision to stream the ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup for free in an ad-supported format proved to be a game-changer, following the success of a similar approach during the IPL season.
Anticipation Builds: Disney+ Hotstar’s Final Frontier
With the ICC World Cup finals approaching, Disney+ Hotstar anticipates yet another surge in viewership. The platform, having shattered peak concurrency records four times during the tournament, is set to make history in live sports streaming.
Conclusion: Beyond Cricket, Beyond Records
As the cricketing world witnesses these historic moments, it’s clear that the connection between fans and platforms like Disney+ Hotstar goes beyond numbers. It’s about shared excitement, passion, and the thrill of witnessing sporting history unfold in real-time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How did Disney+ Hotstar break the record during the India vs New Zealand match?
Disney+ Hotstar’s strategic decision to offer free, ad-supported streaming during the ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup contributed to the surge in viewership.
Q2: Will the finals set a new viewership record?
Anticipation is high, and with India in the finals, the finals against Australia or South Africa could indeed set another record on Disney+ Hotstar.
Q3: How does this achievement compare to previous records during the IPL?
The ICC World Cup has surpassed previous records, showcasing the increasing trend of online platforms becoming the go-to for live sports action.
Q4: What role does Sajith Sivanandan play in this achievement?
As the Head of Disney+ Hotstar India, Sajith Sivanandan acknowledges the viewers’ incredible passion and sees this milestone as a testament to their unwavering support.
Q5: Can we expect more free, ad-supported streaming from Disney+ Hotstar in the future?
While specific plans are not outlined, the success of this strategy during the IPL and ICC World Cup could influence similar approaches in the future.
