Pakistani broadcaster Geo UK has confirmed to BizAsia.co.uk that it has acquired Urdu commentary rights of the Asia Cup cricket, which starts later this month.

The channel will share its coverage with Setanta Sports, who will broadcast the series in English.

The tournament features the international sides from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, UAE, and Hong Kong.

The Asia cup tournament is the ninth edition of its kind and will be held in Pakistan.

As a one day cricket series, it follows the format of 50 overs per side and games are played as day/night games, with the second innings being played under lights.

Karachi will host 10 of the 13 matches, while Lahore will host three. All games will be played at local times, meaning the first innings will start early in the morning in the UK.

The Asia Cup takes place between 24th June to 6th July.

In other Geo news, the broadcaster has denied reports it is encrypting its service. There have been reports suggesting the channel will turn into a pay service in the coming weeks. A channel spokesman said no decision had yet been taken on the status of encryption and that all will be revealed in due course.

Geo UK, Geo News and Aag have all been available free-to-air since their launches in the last three years.

Related link:
Setanta Sports scoops for more Asian cricket