Technology transforming the world of sports with innovative solutions

The ODI World Cup 2023 understandably ushered in festive fervour across India, which hosted the extravaganza. Despite losing the championship match, Team India displayed the grit and determination that sets a world class team apart. Without divulging much into the details of the game, our focus is on how technology has improved the game over the years. The sports sector is undergoing transformation largely because of various sport-friendly technology applications. And cricket is no exception. Watching cricket has become a delight in recent years, thanks to technology that has played a big role in enlivening the proceedings. Firstly, various technological applications have made the game a lot easier for players in terms of analysis. For instance, through an application called ‘Hawk Eye’, which is a computer vision-based system, the exact trajectory of the ball can be gauged. It helps the bowlers in analysing the right length of the ball while umpires get benefitted while taking LBW decisions.

In ‘Hot Spot’, two cameras are used to record visuals and produce infra-red images. This is very beneficial to sports, news and entertainment industries as they are assured of more qualitative pictures and visuals. Similarly, ‘Ultra Edge’ enables umpires to take more accurate decisions. Cricket bat sensors can help players work on their stroke-making by recording and later analysing the quality of their shots. These sensors transmit figures for immediate analysis by coaches and broadcasters. This can provide players and their coaches with knowledge and insights into techniques. This will help boost one’s performances. Drones and graphics and animation are the other two innovations that are being extensively used in cricket in recent years. Graphics and animation have played a big role in adding the entertainment value, while drones have been leveraged for getting better visuals. Given such deep penetration of technological applications, most disciplines like football, tennis, basketball, among others, are increasingly taking the help of technology firms.

Not to be found wanting, Indian IT services companies are vying with one another to grab the emerging opportunities. For instance, Infosys has collaborated with Roland Garros for the digital transformation of the French Open. In a move that will draw the attention of the Grand Slam event’s enthusiasts, it has roped in Spaniard Rafael Nadal, whose record French Open singles titles remain unparalleled, as its global brand ambassador. While TCS has tied up with Formula 1, Tech Mahindra has a similar deal with ChampTrax and HCL Tech has won contracts from American football teams. Reportedly, the top five giants-TCS, Infosys, Wipro, HCL Tech and TechM- will get about $850-$1,000 million revenues annually through their involvement in sports. It shows that Indian IT firms are betting big on the sports sector to cash in on the demand for better digital experience. We can assume that this trend is likely to grow multifold in the coming years. With digital audience of every sport on a steady rise, technology firms will have more business deals coming their way. Apparently, it spells a win-win proposition for all stakeholders. Even as efficiency of the game improves, technology makes the tournament a bigger delight to watch.