Cricket isn’t just a sport in the Indian subcontinent — it’s an emotion, a tradition, and for many, a way of life. And when it comes to the Cricket , the passion gets even more intense. The Cricket 2025 is expected to be one of the most thrilling editions yet, bringing together the cricketing giants of Asia — India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and others — to battle it out for continental glory.
Naturally, fans across India are wondering: how can we watch Cricket 2025 on JioHotstar? Can you stream it for free? Is a subscription necessary? What are the workarounds or bundled offers?
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — based on the latest information — including paid, free, and mobile-friendly ways to watch Cricket 2025, particularly focusing on Jio and Disney+ Hotstar (which many people refer to as “JioHotstar”).
Let’s dive right in.
📺 Watch Cricket on Jiohotstar
Let’s start with the key question: Will Cricket 2025 stream on Hotstar (Disney+ Hotstar or JioHotstar)?
✅ Short Answer: Not Live — At Least, Not for Now.
As per current official sources and media reports, the digital streaming rights for Cricket 2025 in India are held by Sony Sports Network, and matches will be streamed live on the SonyLIV app, not on Disney+ Hotstar.
This means that you won’t be able to watch the Cricket 2025 live on Hotstar, unless there’s a sudden shift in broadcasting rights or a shared licensing deal between Hotstar and Sony (which hasn’t been announced as of September 2025).
🔍 Why the Confusion Around “JioHotstar”?
In India, Disney+ Hotstar has traditionally been the go-to OTT platform for cricket fans. In fact:
- Hotstar used to stream ICC events, IPL, and bilateral Indian cricket matches.
- With Jio offering Disney+ Hotstar as a bundled benefit in many of its prepaid and postpaid plans, people started casually calling it “JioHotstar.”
So, it’s no surprise that many fans naturally assumed that Cricket 2025 would stream there as well.
But due to shifting media rights and intense bidding wars, different broadcasters now hold rights to different tournaments.
For Cricket 2025, it’s SonyLIV, not Hotstar.
🔴 What Does This Mean for Hotstar Users?
If you already have a Disney+ Hotstar subscription — whether standalone or via Jio — you might be disappointed to find that Cricket 2025 won’t be available live on the platform.
But all is not lost.
🎬 1. Match Highlights (Delayed)
There’s a good chance that highlight packages or short match clips may become available on Hotstar — usually after matches finish, and if SonyLIV shares rights to those clips. These might come with a slight delay (a few hours to a day), but they can still help you catch up.
🗣 2. Pre-Match Shows & Analysis (Possibly)
Hotstar often partners with cricket analysts and brands to produce shows, debates, and pre-match analysis — especially featuring former cricketers. While not live coverage, these shows are great for fans who enjoy tactical breakdowns and predictions.
📼 3. Archives and Past Matches
You might also find old matches from previous Asia Cups, especially the iconic India-Pakistan clashes, available for streaming. If you’re nostalgic or want to revisit epic games, this is a good way to scratch that cricket itch.
🧾 Paid Options: How to Watch Cricket 2025 Legally
If you’re looking to watch the tournament live, in real-time, legally, here’s how to do it:
🔵 1. Subscribe to SonyLIV (Streaming Rights Holder)
SonyLIV is your go-to platform this year for the Cricket .
Here are the current subscription options (check for updates):
| Plan | Price (INR) | Duration | Screens | HD Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile-only | ₹299 | 1 year | 1 (mobile) | 720p |
| Premium | ₹999 | 1 year | 2 | 1080p/4K |
| 6-month plan | ₹699 | 6 months | 2 | 1080p |
Pro Tip: Choose the Premium plan if you want to stream on Smart TVs or laptops. Mobile-only plans are more affordable but limited.
📱 Free or Discounted Options: Is There a Way to Watch Without Paying (Legally)?
Yes — if you’re smart about it.
🟢 1. Jio & Airtel Bundled Plans
While Hotstar won’t stream Cricket 2025, some telecom providers like Jio and Airtel offer SonyLIV access with specific prepaid or postpaid plans.
You may find plans that offer:
- SonyLIV mobile access for 28 or 56 days
- Bundled data and calling
- Some OTT combo packs (e.g., JioTV + SonyLIV + others)
Always check the latest offers on the MyJio or Airtel Thanks app, or their official websites.
🟢 2. Flipkart SuperCoins & Rewards
If you shop on Flipkart often, you may already have SuperCoins accumulated. These can sometimes be redeemed for SonyLIV subscriptions or discounts.
Go to the Flipkart SuperCoin store and look for OTT vouchers — it’s a lesser-known but real way to save money.
🟢 3. Credit Card Offers
Banks like HDFC, ICICI, and Axis often partner with OTT platforms for cashback or bundled subscriptions. If you have a high-tier card or premium account, check your benefits.
🖥️ How to Stream Seamlessly on Any Device
Once you’ve got the subscription sorted, here are a few pro tips to ensure a smooth experience:
📲 On Mobile
- Use the SonyLIV app — available on Android and iOS.
- Keep your app updated to the latest version.
- Use headphones for immersive commentary.
🖥️ On Laptop / Desktop
- Watch via www.sonyliv.com
- Use Chrome or Firefox for best performance.
- Disable unnecessary browser extensions during streaming.
📺 On Smart TVs
- Use the official SonyLIV app from your TV’s app store.
- Alternatively, use Chromecast or screen mirroring from mobile.
- Check if your Sony TV has the app pre-installed.
⚠️ What NOT to Do: Avoid These Mistakes
It’s easy to fall into traps during major cricket tournaments. Here are things to avoid:
❌ 1. Illegal Streaming Sites
They may offer free links, but they’re full of malware, shady popups, and risks to your personal data.
❌ 2. “Shared” OTT Accounts
Buying or using shared accounts via Telegram groups, Reddit threads, or unknown sources can get your device flagged or your account banned.
❌ 3. Fake “Free” Apps
If an app promises free Cricket 2025 streaming, but isn’t on Google Play or Apple Store — skip it. These are often scams.
🧠 A Fan’s Smart Viewing Strategy (Recommended)
Here’s a 3-step plan that balances cost, quality, and convenience:
- Use a SonyLIV Mobile-Only Subscription (₹299/year) — cheap and legal.
- Pair with Your Jio Data Plan — for fast, reliable mobile streaming.
- Watch Highlights or Replays on Hotstar — if available.
This way, you’re covered live and post-match, without spending more than ₹25 per month.
🌏 Watching from Outside India?
If you’re an Indian abroad (NRI), or live in a neighboring country, here’s what you need:
- In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the Cricket may stream on StarzPlay.
- In the USA, platforms like Willow TV may have the rights.
- In UK, TNT Sports / Discovery+ is a possible partner.
Use a local platform or VPN if needed — but always stay within local legal frameworks.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Watching the Cricket is more than just a cricket viewing experience — it’s a ritual, a joy, and often, a collective family affair. While you won’t be able to watch Cricket 2025 live on JioHotstar, you’re not out of options.
✔️ SonyLIV is your primary platform for live streaming.
✔️ Jio and Airtel may still offer bundled access to SonyLIV.
✔️ Hotstar can still offer value via highlights, commentary, and analysis.
Whether you’re tuning in from a mobile screen or your
65-inch 4K TV, just make sure you’re watching legally, smoothly, and in style. Because this Cricket promises edge-of-the-seat action — and you don’t want to miss a ball.