Sony Pictures Networks (SPN) is launching two ESPN channels in India.
In a first for Sony, Sony ESPN and Sony ESPN HD will launch Jan. 17. Sony already delivers the SPN Six and SPN Six sports networks in the country and and on the subcontinent.
The launches are described as the first steps in a collaboration with ESPN that will include a multisport website and an app in association with the new Sony ESPN channel.
Sony ESPN's first even will be the Australian Open, first leg of tennis's Grand Slam.
Sony and ESPN are also looking to develop programming around major cricket events, India's most popular sport.
Sony ESPN channels programming will include soccer, tennis, and football.
"SPN is focused on becoming the first choice in television and digital entertainment," SPN India CEO NP Singh said in a statement. "Our collaboration with ESPN is a targeted step in that direction as it helps us ink another milestone in our growth trajectory.
“Not only that, the launch of the Sony ESPN cluster of channels validates our intent to provide stylized, high-quality and insightful sporting content to viewers in India and across the Indian subcontinent,” Singh added.
