[ACCI-CAVIE] The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology into the cricket landscape in South Africa has the potential to transform the sport and enhance fan engagement.
A trial conducted by LootMogul (a sports technology firm from India), Cricket South Africa, and the Durban Super Giants demonstrated promising results, indicating a bright future for digital advancements in cricket. LootMogul, revealed the outcomes of their month-long trial in February. By incorporating AI, blockchain, and metaverse strategies, the platform achieved a monthly average of 4.05 million visits, with an average of 48,177 new games played per month. This represented a 242.5% increase in monthly game activity. The initiative aimed to merge the physical and digital aspects of cricket, providing fans with an immersive and comprehensive experience. Virtual replicas of South African cricket stadiums, players, and all aspects of the game were created, offering interactive games on various online platforms.
The collaboration between LootMogul, Cricket South Africa, and the Durban Super Giants signifies an effort to enhance fan engagement with cricket throughout the year, not just during live events. By leveraging AI and blockchain technology, the aim is to establish a continuous connection between fans and the sport. LootMogul was designated as the official Cricket Metaverse Gaming Partner through partnerships with Cricket South Africa and the Durban Super Giants.
Cricket has a rich history in South Africa and has grown in prominence since the country’s emergence as a significant player in global cricket. Although cricket faced challenges during the Apartheid era, it experienced a revival after 1994 and has become a widely embraced national sport. However, cricket still trails behind football and rugby in terms of spectator interest within South Africa. To address this, Cricket South Africa is seeking to expand the sport’s fanbase through digitization and the use of technology, including AI.
The potential for increasing the fanbase in South Africa is significant, considering the global surge in cricket’s popularity. The sport’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics further highlights its growing international presence. The successful application of AI in South African cricket sets a precedent for similar advancements in other African countries where cricket holds significance, such as Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Kenya.
The Editor and Techcabal