Cricket goes digital

The start of the Cricket World Cup yesterday came with excitement both on and off the field, as the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced its teaming up with the NEAR Foundation to bring Web3 technology to the forefront of enhanced fan engagement in cricket (reported by Insider Sport September 28, 2023).

In this ground-breaking partnership, the ICC will leverage the NEAR Web3 ecosystem to create a deeper connection between global cricket fans and the game they love. Finn Bradshaw, Head of Digital at the ICC, stated the move will allow better engagement for fans across the globe, setting the stage for a new era of fan interaction.

Launching just in time for the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India, NEAR’s Blockchain Operating System will empower fans to showcase their cricket knowledge through various activities. Fans can make strategic decisions related to batting, bowling, and fielding, with each team’s performance directly impacting their scores. Weekly winners will be rewarded with exciting prizes, putting fans at the center of the action like never before. Showcasing another example of how Sports and the digital space are becoming increasingly intertwined.