Cricket World Cup final to be on free-to-air television… if Eoin Morgan’s England make it

THE World Cup final will be screened on free-to-air TV if England get there - with Channel 4 favourites to show it.

Sky, who have exclusive TV rights to the tournament in the UK, are in talks for a sharing plan with Channel 4, who have shown evening highlights throughout the tournament.

But the BBC, ITV and Channel 5 are also interested if those discussions break down.

Sky bosses believe such a gesture would be good for cricket. England have not appeared in a World Cup final since 1992 and at home since 1979.

They will play in the showpiece match at Lord’s on July 14 if they win their semi-final at Edgbaston next Thursday - probably against India.

Channel 4 are screening the British Grand Prix, which clashes with the cricket, on the same day.

But the plan would be for the cricket to moved to More 4 during the F1 race.

Sky UK and Ireland chief executive Stephen van Rooyen said: "Our aim has always been to celebrate what could be a 'once in a generation' moment of a home team in a big final on home soil.

"So, if England reach the final, we’ll make the match available to everyone so the whole country can be part of a rare and special big sporting moment."

The ECB and England team would welcome the move at a time when they are desperate to attract a new audience to cricket.

England are likely to play India in their semi-final game, while Australia take on New Zealand in the other game.

Should Eoin Morgan's men maintain their momentum - after huge wins against the Black Caps and India - and reach the final, it could now be available for all to see.