The controversial multi-million dollar deal signed with Taj Television for telecast rights of the matches in Sri Lanka by the previous Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) interim committee has been scrapped by the Island country government.

The decision terminates the deal involving two new agreements signed for providing TV rights for home matches from 2009 to 2012. The current agreement with Taj Entertainment Network (TEN) would expire by the end of this year.

The decision to cancel the deal for the next three years would be informed to Taj TV, after which fresh bids will be invited. However, the broadcaster will be entitled to participate in any tender that would be floated by the SLC for future TV rights.

The sports channel has recently roped in telecom service provider Idea Cellular as the title sponsor for the India-Sri Lanka cricket series.

The Idea Cup, which kick-starts from July 23, will feature three Test matches and five ODIs. Ten Sports' commentary panel comprises Tony Greig, Ian Bishop, Ranjith Fernando and Arun Lal.

Taj Television and ZEE Entertainment Enterprises are the joint owners of Ten Sports.

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