‘The Test’.
Amazon Prime Video continues to ramp up investment in local content, announcing a documentary series that follows the Australian Men’s Cricket team as it deals with the 2018 ball-tampering scandal and the 2019 Ashes.
Produced by CA Films in association with Whooshka Media and directed by Adrian Brown, The Test: A New Era for Australia’s Team will premiere on Amazon early next year in 200 countries. The series begins the appointment of Justin Langer as coach and follows the team around the world.
The Test joins other Australian Amazon Originals the streamer has announced in the last few months, including its first commission, the Rebel Wilson-hosted, Endemol Shine Australia produced LOL: Last One Laughing, as well as a series of 10 stand-up specials from Guesswork Television.
Amazon is yet to officially announce its Seven Studios produced reboot of Packed to the Rafters – it will be the first local drama commission for the streamer.
“As we continue to increase production of Australian Amazon Original series, our goal is to tell local stories that resonate with our Prime members and we believe that The Test will do just that,” said James Farrell, vice president of international originals at Amazon Studios.
“In working with Cricket Australia, we’ve captured the spirit of the nation’s sport that will be sure to delight both fans of the game as well as those who enjoy an amazing comeback story of redemption. We’re excited to launch this series exclusively for our Prime members in Australia and around the world.”
Richard Ostroff, head of broadcast and production at Cricket Australia said: “Our national team, led by Tim Paine, Aaron Finch and Justin Langer, have been on a considerable journey over the past 18 months.
“The Test has captured the highs and lows of this story intimately, and we are thrilled to work with Amazon Prime Video to bring this story to cricket fans around the world.”
Brown said: “Cricket is a game steeped in tradition, and the behind the scenes access the Australian Cricket team have provided for The Test is unprecedented.
“I can’t speak highly enough of the players and coaches involved. Having the opportunity to tell this story of resilience, character and achievement against-the-odds has been a privilege and I can’t wait to share it.”