FIFA World Cup production technology and personnel are set to cross into bilateral cricket next month, with the three-match Afghanistan-India T20I series in New Delhi receiving a major broadcast upgrade, according to a report by Cricbuzz journalist Vijay Tagore.
Rights holder ITW Universe is preparing a production built around technology and expertise used at the FIFA World Cup, introducing a combination of advanced cameras, augmented reality, player tracking, ultra-slow-motion systems and free-viewpoint replays across the September series.
World Cup production standards move into cricket
ITW Universe is positioning the series as a significant departure from conventional bilateral cricket production, with personnel experienced at football’s biggest events taking control of the broadcast gallery.
ITW Universe said in a statement: “This is the first time a bilateral cricket series will be produced to full FIFA World Cup host-broadcast standards. The same individuals who directed the FIFA World Cup Final and multiple UEFA Champions League Finals will lead the gallery.”
Jamie Oakford will direct the series after working on every FIFA World Cup since 2002, including the 2014 Final. His football production background will form part of a wider effort to bring a different visual approach to the three matches.
ITW Universe Founder Bhairav Shanth said in a statement: “We endorse his philosophy, which is to give the viewer the best seat in the house.”
New camera systems expand replay possibilities
The production package will include AI-stabilised point-of-view cameras, advanced Spidercam coverage, ultra-motion technology and cine-style storytelling.
Among the most substantial additions is Free Viewpoint technology. A network of cameras will create a real-time 3D digital representation of the pitch and players, allowing the production team to position virtual cameras at different points around the action and generate replays from perspectives unavailable through conventional fixed-camera coverage.
A dedicated ultra-slow-motion system capable of capturing footage at 600 frames per second and above will also be used. The cameras are designed to record moments including deliveries, bat contact, edges, stumpings and fielding actions in significantly greater detail.
Shanth added: “We want to move away from the same old production technology that has been used in cricket for the last 10-12 years.”
Augmented reality and tracking join the broadcast
Quidich Innovation Labs’ Spatio system will form another part of the production setup, combining a stabilised drone feed with broadcast augmented reality and real-time optical player tracking.
The technology can place graphics over the live aerial feed and support visualisation of field placements and tactical information, adding another layer to how on-field positioning can be presented during the broadcast.
The overall production package therefore combines aerial imagery, tracking, immersive replay technology and high-speed cameras within a single bilateral series rather than relying predominantly on established cricket broadcast formats.
Shanth said: “The series will give new experiences to the viewers and brands.”
Three-match series scheduled for New Delhi
The Afghanistan-India T20I series will be played in New Delhi on September 13, 15 and 17.
Sony Sports will televise the matches live, while FanCode will provide digital streaming coverage.
The three fixtures will provide ITW Universe with the platform to deploy its expanded production setup across an entire bilateral series, bringing together World Cup production personnel and a range of camera, tracking and replay technologies in cricket.
