By Zainab Shafiq 
The exhilarating second season of the International League T20 (ILT20 2024) has concluded becoming second most-watched T20 cricket league, leaving a trail of unprecedented success and fervour in its wake. Zee Entertainment, the broadcasting powerhouse, announced staggering viewership figures, with a colossal 221 million viewers tuning in across its linear TV channels and the digital platform ZEE5.
What sets ILT20 Season 2 apart is its remarkable inclusivity, as evidenced by its 46% female viewership, indicating a broad appeal cutting across gender lines throughout India. The league’s influence extended far and wide, with Mumbai and Delhi emerging as pivotal markets, while states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra contributed substantially to its success.
The Punjab region witnessed a remarkable surge in viewership, boasting a 22% rise in cumulative reach, attributed in part to ZEE’s innovative introduction of Punjabi commentary on social platforms. Zee Entertainment’s extensive distribution strategy ensured widespread accessibility, with matches broadcasted globally through 10 popular linear TV channels and ZEE5, reaching over 100 countries.
Viewership figures for ILT20 2024 – Becomes second most-watched T20 cricket league
Internationally, ILT20 Season 2 captivated cricketing nations, earning the title of the second most-watched T20 cricket league worldwide. It boasted a diverse audience, with 99 million women and 121 million youth viewers, highlighting its universal appeal.
The league’s on-field action was as captivating as its viewership numbers, with stadiums witnessing full-capacity crowds cheering on their favorite franchise teams. The nail-biting finale saw MI Emirates clinch victory over Dubai Capitals in a thrilling showdown.
Star-studded commentary featuring icons like Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, and Wasim Akram added to the allure, while ZEE Entertainment’s strategic ad campaigns featuring David Warner and Harbhajan Singh heightened anticipation.
A mid-season collaboration with rap group 7 Bantai’Z injected additional excitement, showcasing the league’s fusion of sports and music. With six franchise teams, including Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, and Dubai Capitals, ILT20 Season 2 witnessed the participation of cricketing luminaries such as David Warner, Andre Russell, and Chris Woakes.
Mr. Rahul Johri, President of ZEE Entertainment, hailed ILT20 Season 2 as a global benchmark for franchise cricket leagues, attributing its success to the unwavering support of sponsors, the ECB, stakeholders, and the fervent enthusiasm of fans. Looking ahead, ZEE Entertainment aims to continue innovating, promising more thrilling seasons to cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
“ILT20 Season 2 has set a new benchmark for franchise cricket leagues globally. We were successful in providing viewers with an exhilarating experience as they passionately cheered for their favourite teams and players. As we celebrate the success of Season 2, we would like to extend a heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, ECB and all stakeholders for their trust and invaluable support, which has been instrumental in making this season bigger and better. Moving forward, we will continue to push the boundaries and innovate to elevate the viewing experience and entertain cricket enthusiasts around the world.”
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