Technology in cricket: Five major advancements

Introduction

Technology has become an intrinsic part of our life. It pervades all aspects of our existence. Whether they are rudimentary or advanced. Similarly, following the same trend, it has become a critical part of sports as well, especially cricket. From managing databases of cricketers to rendering coaching, and viewership, technology in cricket is playing a significant role. It aids not only the viewers but also the umpires in making decisions. It also helps coaches in enhancing their training approaches, and players in adjusting as per the requirement. In this article, I shall be shedding light on a few critical technologies in cricket. Which are reshaping the course and methods of playing.

1. Technology in cricket for Third Umpire –

This technology in cricket was conceptualized in the year 1992 for domestic cricket matches. It is an arrangement wherein an off-field umpire assists on-field umpires in the decision-making process, in case of doubt. It stands laced with multiple screens coupled with various replay tools. As a result, it allows the third umpire to decide scientifically and pragmatically.

2. Hawkeye technology in cricket

Since 2001, this technology in cricket is making broadcasting more interactive. In this system, technicians position a multitude of cameras under the roof at various angles. Those cameras receive the input and combine to form a 3D video. Hawkeye is very useful to ascertain various elements such as – the position of the batter’s leg, ball movement, length, and line of ball delivered. Moreover, the 3rd Umpire also uses this technology in the decision-making process.

3. Spidercam technology in cricket

Akin to Hawkeye, spider cam use is also crucial for various purposes. It is essentially a rotating camera. It requires a winch and cable system for support and rotation. Which allows horizontal and vertical movements. Spidercam assumes critical importance in matters of decision-making, delivering views of critical moments, capturing movements, etc.

4. Speed gun – Technology to analyze the speed

This technology in cricket is introduced in 1999. The primary purpose of the speed gun is to measure the speed of balls. It functions on the principle of the Doppler shift. That is similar to the speed gun or radar to measure the speed of the cars. It is very significant, owing to innumerable factors, in the arena of cricket. It measures the delivery speed of balls and facilitates the players by giving them the necessary details about their balling.

5. Camera and Microphone in the stumps

Technicians Embed two micro cameras and microphones into the hollow part of the stumps. They fix one camera facing front, and another facing back with a microphone. Their wires are running underground from the stumps to the screens. These cameras and microphones transmit necessary information and data. This technology in cricket becomes helpful for quality cricket shots, foot movement of batters, and dismissals by stumping.