Cricket continues to dominate as one of the most-watched sports worldwide, and 2025 brings even more ways for fans to stream matches online. Whether it’s the Indian Premier League (IPL), ICC tournaments, or bilateral series, streaming platforms are evolving rapidly. A major highlight this year is the anticipated merger of two Indian giants: JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar, a collaboration many are calling “JioHotstar.”
This guide breaks down the best platforms to stream cricket in 2025 and what this Jio-Hotstar merger means for Indian viewers.
Jio + Hotstar = JioHotstar?
In 2024, Reliance’s Viacom18 (which owns JioCinema) and Disney Star India (which owns Disney+ Hotstar) entered into a significant merger agreement. The goal is to consolidate content, including sports rights, entertainment shows, and movies, under one massive streaming ecosystem.
Although an official rebrand or platform titled “JioHotstar” hasn’t been launched yet, the combined content offerings are already shaping a new viewing experience.
What to Expect:
A single subscription or bundled service combining IPL, ICC events, Disney+ originals, Star TV shows, and more.
Jio users may retain free or discounted access to premium content.
The unified platform may launch under a new name or app by the end of 2025.
Top Cricket Streaming Platforms in 2025
1. Disney+ Hotstar / JioCinema (India)
Together, these two platforms are now the most powerful cricket streaming combo in India. JioCinema offers free IPL streaming, while Disney+ Hotstar continues to stream ICC tournaments and India’s home series.
Best For: IPL, ICC events, India matches
Subscription: JioCinema is free (with Jio); Hotstar has free and premium options
2. Willow TV (USA and Canada)
Willow TV remains the go-to service for fans in North America, broadcasting major events like the IPL, ICC tournaments, and series involving India, Australia, and England.
Best For: Hardcore cricket fans
Subscription: Monthly or yearly plans
3. Sky Sports and NOW TV (UK)
Sky Sports broadcasts all England home matches, ICC events, and popular leagues like the IPL. NOW TV offers flexible, short-term viewing options for those without a full subscription.
Best For: England cricket, ICC coverage
Subscription: Sky Sports package or NOW TV passes
4. Kayo Sports (Australia)
Australian fans can rely on Kayo Sports for BBL, Australia’s international matches, and select global tournaments. Fox Cricket content is fully available on the platform.
Best For: Australian domestic and international cricket
Subscription: Monthly, no lock-in contract
5. SuperSport / DStv (Africa)
SuperSport provides live coverage of international series, ICC tournaments, and leagues like the IPL and SA20 across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Best For: African cricket viewers
Subscription: Tied to DStv packages
6. FanCode (India – Niche & Domestic Cricket)
FanCode caters to fans of domestic cricket, women’s matches, and associate nation games. It’s a valuable option for viewers looking beyond mainstream tournaments.
Best For: Domestic cricket, lesser-known teams
Subscription: Pay-per-match or affordable monthly plans
7. ESPN+ (USA)
While not a full-time cricket platform, ESPN+ provides access to select international matches and ICC content as part of the Disney streaming bundle.
Best For: Casual fans in the United States
Subscription: Part of Disney+ Bundle or standalone
Tips for Better Cricket Streaming
Use a VPN if traveling internationally to access home-region platforms.
Ensure a minimum internet speed of 5 Mbps for HD and 25 Mbps for 4K.
Consider smart devices like Fire Stick or Chromecast for the best experience.
Watch for official app updates regarding the Jio and Hotstar integration.
Conclusion
Cricket fans in 2025 have more options than ever to watch matches online. India is witnessing a major transformation through the evolving partnership between Jio and Disney+ Hotstar, which could soon reshape how fans access both sports and entertainment content. Whether you’re tuning in to the IPL, a Test match, or the World Cup, the streaming experience is now richer, more affordable, and more accessible.
Stay updated for the official launch of the merged platform later this year—and get ready for the future of cricket streaming.
