BBC secure Ashes highlights and digital clips deal

As reported by The Cricketer, the broadcaster will show clips via its website and a full highlights package via the iPlayer

The BBC have obtained the rights to show a daily highlights programme of every day of the 2021/22 men's Ashes series.

As reported by The Cricketer on December 1, the broadcaster will also show clips via the BBC Sport website as the action unfolds.

UK fans will be able to access a free-to-air package of the best bits of each day from 5pm GMT on the iPlayer.

Footage will include the ball-by-ball commentary provided by Test Match Special on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra, BBC Radio 4 LW and the BBC Sounds app.

TMS are also confirmed to have full commentary of the women's Ashes in January and February 2022.

The 11th-hour agreement ensures the most intense active rivalry in men's international cricket will be brought to a wide audience.

Confirmation of the deal follows talks with Cricket Australia and BT Sport, who have exclusive rights to the five Tests in the UK.

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Alongside pictures and commentary taken from Fox Sports, BT will supplement the coverage with their own team based in the UK.

Matt Smith leads the team alongside Alastair Cook, Moeen Ali, Steve Harmison, Heather Knight, Matt Prior and Mark Butcher. Glenn McGrath, Alison Mitchell and Mel Farrell will add to the coverage from Australia.

BT will show their own highlights package from 8am every morning after play has concluded, with their YouTube channel showing a repeat from 2pm each day

Michael Vaughan will be absent from both BT and the BBC's plans due to his alleged involvement in the ongoing racism scandal that has engulfed English cricket.

The men's Ashes gets underway on December 8 at The Gabba.

Our coverage of the Ashes is brought to you in association with Cricket 22