Ad nauseum: Channel Nine’s coverage of the Ashes is not up to standard

The Ashes is quite probably one of the two or three most important and watched sporting events in Australia, a showdown between the oldest enemies in cricket. But despite its importance in Australian culture local broadcaster Channel Nine is making an absolute hash of the 2023 edition for Australian viewers.

Channel Nine has held the rights for Australia’s overseas Ashes tours since 2013, but the network has made no effort to move with the times or serve the wishes of its audience.

For clarity’s sake, I am watching the broadcast on its 9Now app on an Apple TV. Having “cut the cable” some time ago, I am reliant on streaming services for my TV needs. However, this has rarely been an issue, with offerings like Kayo and Netflix-style streaming services providing virtually everything I need – and all without the hassle of advertising.

Despite my best efforts to avoid ads at every turn, the continued need for Australia’s traditional broadcast channels to secure “exclusive” rights to sporting events remains the last breach in my defences against advertising bombardment.

There are arguments to be made on both sides regarding these exclusive ri

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