WICB Launches Pay-Per-View TV Online

In partnership with Sky Sports and Wisden Online, the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has launched an ambitious pay-per-view Internet TV initiative that begins with Thursday's opening Test against India at Bourda.

For interested cricket fans, here is the most important thing: If you can view this video clip, then your connection can handle the stream. That is, of course, if you're willing to pony up mega-bucks to order it online.

Pricing has been fixed at US$100 for the entire series with other packages available for between US$5 and US$45. The full pricing package is available here.

For a schedule of matches and times up for sale under the PPV venture, click here

In addition to the live material, Wisden Online said it would produce various highlights packages throughout the series together with free previews before each day's play.

The PPV television initiative is part of an eight-year deal between the WICB and BSkyB to develop and manage the board's official internet service, which includes the disappointingly limited WindiesCricket.com site.

WICB marketing boss Chris Dehring is viewing Thursday's launch of the PPV service as a dry run for the 2007 World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in the Caribbean. "We look forward to the support of Caribbean and international cricket fans around the world."