The International Cricket Council (ICC) is making strides in embracing Web3 technology through its partnership with the Near Foundation to launch a blockchain-powered fan engagement app for the upcoming 2023 Cricket World Cup in India. This collaboration highlights ICC’s commitment to exploring and utilizing blockchain-based applications.
The ICC initially ventured into the Web3 space with the creation of FanCraze in 2022. FanCraze was a non-fungible token (NFT) platform that allowed cricket enthusiasts to own NFTs representing iconic moments from past ICC tournaments. This platform served as the foundation for the upcoming Web3 fan engagement app.
The new app introduces innovative features to enhance fan engagement during the Cricket World Cup. One of the exciting features is prediction games, where fans can make strategic selections for tournament matches. These predictions earn them points based on the accuracy of their choices compared to the actual match outcomes. The points contribute to leaderboards and unlock rewards, creating a more immersive Cricket World Cup experience.
The choice of the Near Foundation as a partner is significant. Near’s Blockchain Operating System provides valuable interoperability with other blockchain networks. This seamless integration allows the Web3 fan app to interact effectively with diverse blockchain ecosystems, expanding its utility and reach.
Beyond fan engagement, this partnership aims to showcase the potential of blockchain technology in the world of sports. By collaborating with one of the most popular sports on the Indian subcontinent, the ICC seeks to demonstrate the real-world applications of blockchain and Web3 technology. The Cricket World Cup hosting in India presents an ideal opportunity to illustrate the power of blockchain technology to a massive audience.
The partnership between the ICC and Near Foundation is a long-term endeavor that extends until December 2025. This indicates a sustained commitment to explore and develop Web3 applications that enhance the cricket experience for fans worldwide.
The 2023 Cricket World Cup is fast approaching, beginning on October 5 and ending with the final match on November 19. Cricket enthusiasts and tech aficionados can look forward to a captivating fusion of sports and blockchain technology during this global sporting extravaganza.
ICC’s collaboration with the Near Foundation to introduce a Web3 fan app for the Cricket World Cup signifies a significant step towards integrating blockchain technology into the realm of sports. The focus is on enriching fan engagement and showcasing the transformative potential of Web3. Cricket fans worldwide can anticipate an immersive and interactive experience during this cricketing spectacle.
