The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Rupert Murdoch-owned News Corporation’s intent to acquire ESPN STAR Sports (ESS) from ESPN.

The CCI said in a statement: “… Also considering the presence of other sports channels in India such as DD Sports, TEN Action Plus, Ten Sports, Ten Cricket, Ten Golf, Sony Six, Neo Sports Plus, Neo Prime, etc., the proposed combination is not likely to give rise to any adverse competition concern in India.”

This news follows News Corp’s announcement in June this year to acquire the remainder 50% equity stake of ESS. The network is currently a 50:50 joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and News Corporation Ltd. The buy-out would make News Corp the sole owner of ESS, while The Walt Disney Company, which owns the ESPN stake, will exit the Asian sports market.

CCI also expressed that following this deal, ESPN can again consider an entry into the Indian market, after completion of the non-compete period specified in the agreements. Upon completion of the acquisition, News Corp would also acquire control over 49% interest of ESPN Star Sports in Premier Hockey Development Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between ESPN Star Sports and the Indian Hockey Federation.