Behind the scenes of cricket is changing at an ever-faster rate, scaring traditionalists while we need to stay relevant in a world where esports are sprouting like mushrooms.
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In the not-too-distant future, technology-enhanced sensors in smart balls and bats will collect data. Subsequent feedback helps with real-time analysis of players and coaches.
Drones and robots will become commonplace. Drones monitor stadiums and provide real-time analytics. Robots are used extensively not only in training sessions, but also to replicate the skills and variations of opposing batters and bowlers.
Virtual reality is also used to improve the game. This technology allows players to practice in a virtual environment and hone their skills without being on the field. This helps players get better, reduce injuries, and lead to the development of new strategies and tactics.
The use of artificial intelligence will be a major game changer. AI analyzes player performance and provides instant feedback. AI also creates accurate simulations of game situations, providing insight into the strengths and weaknesses of each player and team.
Future cricket spectators will be able to compare themselves to their heroes using enhanced virtual reality technology. For example, comparing bat speed to Virat Kohli, who was in his 2040s, or his bowling skills to Dennis Lillee, who was then. No more debate about the merits and greatness of Trumpers, Warns and Tendulkers!
Golf employs technology and data collection that has changed the way the game is taught, practiced and played. The American cousin of cricket and the most traditional of the American sports, baseball uses technology in its game that allows teams to respond to opposing pitchers and batters at all levels. Elite sports use technology to track the health and performance of athletes to give them a small advantage over their opponents.
Australian coach Andrew Macdonald speaks to Mitchell Stark.credit:Getty
The equipment used in cricket may also evolve, such as changing the rules regarding bats. Technology changes the quality of bats and balls. Bats are lighter and stronger, balls are more aerodynamic, and can move faster and swing more without the need for illegal substances.
3D printing creates custom bats and balls for players, allowing players to customize their own gear. Dennis Lillee’s ComBat aluminum bat was timeless. Traditional equipment manufacturers may follow the unicorn path.
The way cricket is broadcast will also change. Technology within the stadium will improve the fan experience as each seat could choose a camera angle and track the movements of individual players.
The use of artificial turf will become popular in the next 20 years as it offers many advantages over natural grass such as greater durability and less maintenance required. It is an obvious surface to be used for T20 and other whiteball leagues where deterioration of the surface is not essential to the format. Become.
Michael Nether celebrating his catch for the Brisbane Heat.credit:Getty
Cricket has traditionally been a popular sport in the Commonwealth countries. Expect the game to expand into new markets such as the United States, which has grown in popularity since people migrated from the South Asian cricket nations.
Women’s cricket will also undergo dramatic changes. The sport has seen a surge in popularity and media profile in recent years, and this trend will accelerate. Cricket will no longer be an all-male sport, and the number of female players, fans and coaches will grow exponentially.
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The women’s IPL will accelerate change and provide financial stability for players and coaches. My prediction is that women’s cricket will be the leader in the adoption and use of technology.
Not all of these changes are good. Also, changes may come and go as they are discarded in search of victory. What they do is make the game smoother and more appealing to sports fans and broadcasters of the time.
Despite the inevitable onslaught of technology, the good news is our game continues to be a contest between competitive humans in a high-pressure environment that pleases progressives, traditionalists and Luddites. about it.