Sky's 'free' sports channel to launch August 24

Sky's new basic-package sports channel 'Sky Sports Mix' will launch on Wednesday, August 24.

The new station will be available to all Sky customers with a basic subscription package, giving it a potential reach of around 17m viewers.

Sky Sports Mix will air select live events from Sky Sports' extensive stable of broadcasting rights, with the aims of both increasing viewing figures and tempting customers to upgrade to a full sports package.

The first event due to be broadcast live on the channel will be the first ODI between England and Pakistan in Southampton on launch day, while the Championship encounter between Burton Albion and Derby County will also be screened live on August 26.

The new channel is not expected to be made available to customers of Virgin Media or BT TV.