MUMBAI: Taj Television has bagged the worldwide television rights for Zimbabwe cricket till 2019.

The value of the deal is $20 million, according to sources. The four-year rights had earlier fetched $6 million.

The agreements with Taj Television cover the Zimbabwe cricket seasons in excess of an eight-year period from 2012 through to 2019. 

Taj Television will be telecasting 220 days of cricket including 15 days of India cricket consisting of two series.

With the acquisition of these cricket rights, Taj Television now has the rights of five cricket boards - South Africa, Pakistan, West Indies, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe has returned to Test after a self imposed exile of six years, with an inspiring win against Bangladesh. Over the next two years, Zimbabwe will be playing Test Cricket with New Zealand, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka providing Zimbabwe a benchmark to measure their progress in the sport.

Zimbabwe Cricket MD Ozias Bvute said, "We are happy to extend our existing contract with Taj Television Limited as this plays a pivotal role in ensuring that Zimbabwean cricket is seen by those who love the game as well as introduced to new audiences. With its superior telecast standards, world class television production capabilities and strength to telecast the Zimbabwe Cricket worldwide, Taj Television Limited will add a lot of value to game of cricket."

Taj Television India CEO Atul Pande said, "We‘re extremely pleased to extend our partnership with Zimbabwe Cricket. This is a testament to our commitment to the game of cricket and fans as we cement our relationship with Zimbabwe Cricket.

"Through our television channels-Ten Cricket and Ten Sports, our website www.tencricket.com and our various wireless platform initiatives, we are confident of taking the rights of Zimbabwe Cricket to new heights by working along with various partners and are committed to set new benchmarks in broadcasting and distribution."