It could spark a major shake-up in the BBC's output and many fans are not happy

The future of one of Britain's most cherished sports programmes could be under threat after reports emerged that the ECB is considering ending the BBC's exclusive radio rights to England cricket.

According to The Telegraph, cricket chiefs are exploring the possibility of opening up radio coverage of England's home Test matches to rival broadcasters, with talkSPORT among the leading contenders to secure rights alongside the BBC.

The move would potentially end the exclusive hold that Test Match Special has enjoyed over England's home internationals for decades and has already sparked a furious reaction from cricket fans.

The BBC currently holds exclusive radio rights for all men's and women's home internationals as part of a wider agreement with the England and Wales Cricket Board which runs until 2028.

However, the ECB is preparing to go to market next year for a new rights cycle beginning in 2029 and is reportedly considering a more open broadcasting model similar to that used in Australia.

Under that system, multiple broadcasters are allowed to cover the same matches, with different stations targeting different audiences.

An ECB source told The Telegraph there was an opportunity to be "a lot more creative" when the next rights package is negotiated, adding that the governing body was considering the best way of maximising both reach and value.

The prospect of changes to Test Match Special has prompted an immediate backlash online.

One fan wrote: "Ffs..TMS is the best thing on Radio."

Another posted: "TalkSport coverage is pretty dire tbh."

Others reacted with disbelief, with one supporter asking: "Will these people never learn?" while another simply pleaded: "Please no!"

For generations of cricket supporters, Test Match Special has become as much a part of the English summer as the game itself.

The programme, which first aired in 1957, has built a loyal following through its unique blend of ball-by-ball commentary, expert analysis, humour and famous off-topic conversations.

While the report does not suggest the BBC would lose cricket coverage altogether, the possibility of sharing rights with a commercial rival has clearly struck a nerve among listeners.

talkSPORT already has extensive experience covering England's overseas tours and has broadcast home Test matches internationally since last year.

The station is now being viewed as the most likely broadcaster to challenge the BBC's long-standing dominance of cricket radio coverage.