ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) — The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) is appealing to regional broadcasters to try to secure the TV broadcast rights for the current Test and One Day International (ODI) series between the regional side and New Zealand.

The WICB released a statement saying that it is making the call because fans have been complaining that they are disheartened since they are not able to see the West Indies team play against New Zealand.

“From the responses there are legions of fans who are desirous of viewing the matches and that represents obvious interest and demand,” the statement said.

“Through its broadcast rights deal with TAJ TV the WICB has played a major role in ensuring that when the West Indies team plays at home the television broadcast is provided to CMC free-to-air partner stations so that fans can view the matches live.”

WICB says when the regional side plays at home, a deal with TAJ TV ensures that the television broadcast is provided to the Caribbean Media Corporation’s (CMC) free-to-air partners around the region.

However the board says it does not own the broadcast rights for the current series and is hoping TV companies would intervene.

“Contrary to some misinformation, the WICB does not own or control the broadcast rights for the West Indies v New Zealand series or any series played outside the region,” the release said.

“The WICB looks forward to cricket fans being able to view the matches on television with the favourable consideration and intervention of television companies.”

The first of three test matches between West Indies and New Zealand is taking place in Dunedin.

The two sides are also due to play five ODI matches and two T20 games.