ICC to introduce never-seen-before bat-tracking technology in T20 World Cup 2021

In a first, the International Cricket Council is set to introduce a bat-tracking technology. The development was confirmed by the apex body on October 15, ahead of the T20 World Cup 2021, which got underway in Oman on October 17.

“For the first time in cricket, we’ll also see tracking off the bat, which will be provided by Hawk-Eye in select matches, in addition to their ball tracking and edge detection services,” an ICC media release read.

Further, the viewers will be able to witness the proceedings from “stunning multi-angle spin around replay sequences from 4DReplay, facilitated in partnership with Star Sports [the official broadcasters of the tournament]” from the Super 12 phase, the release confirmed.

“The ICC TV production will see a minimum of 35 cameras at all venues. Viewers will be treated to state-of-the-art coverage which will include live player tracking and a dynamic field plot.”

The ICC revealed the coverage of the T20 World Cup in 2021 is the most extensive ever with “nearly 10,000 hours of live coverage across linear and OTT channels from the ICC’s broadcast partners to fans in over 200 countries.

The ICC also announced a star-studded commentary line-up including the likes of Nasser Hussain, Harsha Bhogle, Ian Bishop, Natalie Germanos, Sunil Gavaskar, Michael Atherton and Simon Doull, Russel Arnold, Anjum Chopra, Murali Kartik, Athar Ali Khan, Bazid Khan, Mpumelelo Mbangwa, Preston Mommsen, Danny Morrison, Mark Nicholas, Niall O’Brien and Alan Wilkins.

Further, former West Indies skipper Daren Sammy, former South Africa paceman Dale Steyn, and former Australia opener Shane Watson are also a part of the commentary set-up for the multi-team tournament.

“Twenty20 cricket provides maximum thrills to fans and it’s no wonder that it is considered to be the vehicle for the growth of the game worldwide. Believe me, there are no easy games in this tournament and it has been nothing less than a dream for me to lift the trophy twice for my team. I still back the West Indies to defend their title but I really wish all the teams the very best. It will be a great pleasure being in the commentary box this time,” Sammy said.

Dale Steyn added: “It’s an honour to be part of the commentary team at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and a pleasure to be watching all the action from close quarters. The game has changed a lot in recent times and there is some really exciting talent out there waiting to make its mark. I am sure there are lots of explosive performances and close finishes in store. I can’t really pick a team to win it yet, and that is what makes the tournament all that more exciting – all the unpredictability, along with the anticipation.”

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