England's home Test cricket sponsors npower hope the Ashes will return to terrestrial television - and appear more inclined to continue their own financial support if they do.

Reports have suggested the Government may choose, after a review undertaken by adviser David Davies, to restore Ashes cricket to the 'crown jewels' of sports events which must be broadcast live and free to air in this country.

Satellite broadcasters Sky currently provide exclusive live coverage of all England's home Tests and are contracted to continue doing so.

But the prospect of Ashes cricket at least rejoining the likes of the Grand National and Olympic Games as a 'protected' event, accessible to the majority television audience, is attractive to npower.

Other potential sponsors would surely agree too, according to npower marketing director Kevin Peake.

"We welcome the findings of the David Davies review," he said.

"TV exposure is an important part in how we use the Test series sponsorship to market our brand and enhance our reputation."

There is an ongoing commitment from npower to sponsor home Tests, and the energy company has an option to extend their existing deal until after the next series against Australia here in 2013.

"Beyond 2013, having the Ashes on terrestrial television will deliver greater returns for sponsors' investments - and should attract new businesses to invest in the game," Peake said.

"This decision will have an impact on our future within the sport."

Peake has no qualms about the quality of existing coverage but makes it clear the potential size of audience is a hugely significant bottom line.

When England pulled off a shock 2005 Ashes victory, terrestrial broadcaster Channel 4 attracted more than seven million. When England again beat Australia this year, Sky's highest figure was 1.9million.

"Sky's cricket coverage of the 2009 Ashes series was first-class - and in recent years, they have introduced innovative technologies which have greatly enhanced the viewer's cricket experience," he notes.

"However, we can't escape the fact that viewing figures for cricket on Sky have yet to match those that have been achieved on terrestrial television in previous years."