Kolkata football fans eager to catch FIFA World Cup action now know where to watch stars like Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe. Cable operators across the city are ready to offer four channels broadcasting matches from June 11. While some multi-system operators (MSOs) have opened subscriptions, others await clarity on pricing. Kolkata's largest MSO, SitiCable, has already announced subscription rates for the four channels.
Match Broadcast Details
The World Cup kicks off with Mexico versus South Africa in Mexico City. Matches will air on Zee TV's Unite8 Sports 1 and Unite8 Sports 2, both available in HD. Additionally, Zee Bangla Cinema and Zee Cinema will broadcast matches. Live streaming on Zee5 is available for a subscription fee exceeding Rs 700.
SitiCable's Offerings
Suresh Sethia, CEO of SitiCable, stated: "We have started airing the channels and informing operators. They are contacting interested subscribers. We have distributed a rate chart." He expects a rush once the event begins, given Kolkata's football passion. "Sports events see slow response initially. We have received many inquiries. Since channels just launched, subscriptions are low. But Kolkata is football-crazy, so demand will spike after the first match. Operators are alerted to switch on channels on demand." SitiCable offers Unite8 Sports 1 at Rs 3 per month, Unite8 Sports 2 at Rs 5, with HD versions at Rs 5 and Rs 10 respectively.
GTPL-KCBPL Packages
MSO GTPL-KCBPL offers the channels in existing packages. Unite8 channels are in packages above Rs 350, while Zee Bangla Cinema and Zee Cinema are in Rs 225 packages, according to MD Vijay Agarwal. Standard definition channels cost Rs 7 and Rs 8, HD channels Rs 9 and Rs 11. "Unite8 channels replaced & Flix and Zee Café in higher packages. Many subscribers already have access, but a larger section is unaware. Operators will start offering as June 11 nears. By June 12, we expect a sharp spike. Subscribers on lower packages can watch on Zee Bangla Cinema and Zee Cinema at no extra cost."
Challenges and DTH Options
Some operators note subscription may be slow due to match timings (post-midnight or early morning in India). Tapas Das, convenor of All Bengal Cable TV and Broadband Operators' United Forum, said: "Many young fans prefer live streaming on phones. Also, we haven't received official channel price intimation from MSOs." Meanwhile, DTH operator Airtel will offer the channels within a day or two, sources said.
