Ashes to be streamed on YouTube

The ECB has confirmed a deal to stream the Investec Ashes series live via YouTube for internet users on mainland Europe and in South America. Although the ECB has made initial forays into providing highlights and video packages on its YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/ecbcricket - this will be the first time a match has been broadcast live.

The service will begin at 11am on Wednesday, with the start of the first Test at Trent Bridge. As well as live streaming, a one-minute highlights package of each session will be produced.

"This is the ECB's first venture into live streaming of cricket online, so is ground-breaking territory for us," David Collier, the ECB's chief executive, said. "We receive numerous requests from cricket fans in regions where there is no broadcast TV offering, and therefore we are delighted that many will be able to enjoy this Investec Ashes Series.

"It is also important that we play a role in the expansion of the game to countries that do not traditionally play nor watch the sport."

Steve Nuttall, Senior Director YouTube, said: "Our partnership with the ECB expands the reach of the Investec Ashes Series to new countries and to YouTube's younger, connected audience. We're delighted to see more top quality cricket on YouTube."

The arrangement covers 53 countries, including the majority of Europe (although not Ireland) and everywhere in South America other than Guyana and French Guiana. The service will be geo-blocked, making it available only to internet users in regions where there is no broadcast offering.