Langer amazed by satellite deal

Langer hit out after hitting a record score for Somerset

Australia opener Justin Langer has expressed his dismay that Test cricket is only available to British viewers who pay for satellite television.

Sky were awarded exclusive rights to cover England's matches this summer, the first time since 1938 that home Tests have not been on terrestrial TV.

"Maybe I'm getting a bit philosophical but that's a major issue," Langer said.

"After the impact of the Ashes I'm amazed that every kid in England isn't able to watch cricket."

Justin Langer's pull shot tips

Sky's coverage of the matches with Sri Lanka and Pakistan this summer is reportedly attracting an average of around 200,000 viewers, compared with the 9m Channel 4 regularly achieved during the epic Ashes series last year.

"I have been in this country for four weeks now and I've seen maybe half an hour of cricket on TV," Langer said.

His Australian compatriot, legendary broadcaster Richie Benaud, is a staunch advocate of free-to-air TV.

Benaud chose to end an English commentary career spanning over 42 years when Channel 4's contract expired at the end of the Ashes.

Sky's contract to cover home Tests runs until 2009.