At a meeting of the ECB's First-Class Forum (FCF) yesterday, Robert Griffiths QC, Chairman of the FCF On-Line Rights Working Party, delivered an interim report on the progress that the Working Party has made so far, and informed the meeting that the first round of bids for cricket's on-line rights were currently being examined. Members of the FCF were encouraged to receive the Working Party's report.

The meeting resolved that given the dynamic nature of the process, Mr Griffiths should report to David Morgan, Chairman of the FCF and Deputy Chairman of the ECB, on a regular basis and keep him fully informed of all developments.

David Morgan said:

"Potentially, on-line rights represent a very significant new income stream for cricket. However, nobody really yet knows the precise value of this important asset, and the Working Party will continue to explore all options. Ultimately, the ECB is concerned to ensure that the maximum value of the rights is secured for the benefit of the entire game."

© ECB