Why has Aakash Chopra left Star Sports Network before IPL 2023?

Former Indian batter Aakash Chopra is one of the most popular commentators in the country. Chopra has done commentary in both English and Hindi but the latter has given him recognition. His control over the Hindi language and his poetic references have earned him a special place in the audience’s heart.

Chopra used to be a regular figure in the Star Sports Network’s commentary box until last year. He remained absent from their commentary box throughout the recently concluded Indian home season. He was eagerly missed during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 as well. Not only in the commentary box, but Chopra used to anchor in a lot of Star Sports’ shows as well.

It is to note that Chopra has left the Star Sports Network, which is the official broadcaster of the Indian home series. He has joined Viacom18 Media Private Limited and will be seen in the Hindi commentary box in the upcoming Indian Premier League 2023.

Why has Aakash Chopra left Star Sports Network before IPL 2023?

The exact reason for Chopra leaving the Star network is unknown. However, in the professional world, it is quite common for an individual to explore different opportunities. It is a strong possibility that Viacom18 Network might have offered him a better salary package, or he could have seen a better-growing opportunity there.

#TataIPL ki taiyaari…with the friends 🫶 pic.twitter.com/6UhHYkyaRG

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) March 30, 2023

Viacom18 won the digital rights of IPL 2023 at a record price, and he will be seen doing Hindi commentary on Jio Cinema. The audience on the OTT platforms is certainly increasing, and Jio Cinema is set to give the audience a different type of experience. Moreover, watching the match on Jio Cinema is free as well, which will attract all the more audiences.

Social Media has played a huge part in making Chopra a familiar name. He has over 3.8 million subscribers on his YouTube channel. Chopra used to do a show named ‘Aakashvani’ on his YouTube channel, which is now an exclusive show on both Sports18 and Jio Cinema. Apart from YouTube, he is quite popular on Twitter and Instagram as well.