In a recent revelation, ICC’s Head of Digital, Finn Bradshaw, and Near CEO, Chris Donovan, provided insights into the Web3 mobile app designed to elevate fan engagement to new heights before, during, and after matches at this prestigious sporting event.
Embracing the Future of Fan Engagement
This innovative move builds on ICC’s foray into the world of Web3 in 2022 with the introduction of the FanCraze platform, a non-fungible token (NFT) haven for cricket aficionados seeking memorabilia from past ICC tournaments. According to Bradshaw, this initial step laid the foundation for broader exploration into the possibilities of Web3 technology.
Throughout the tournament, cricket enthusiasts will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in prediction activities, allowing them to make strategic choices. Participants will earn points based on the accuracy of their predictions and the actual outcomes of the games.
A Perfect Synergy: ICC and Near
The ICC’s choice to partner with Near stems from a shared vision of how Web3 technology can revolutionize digital experiences for fans. Notably, Near’s Blockchain Operating System boasts compatibility with other networks, a crucial factor in sealing this collaboration. The scalability of Near’s layer-1 blockchain infrastructure also caught the attention of the parties involved, hinting at potential use cases beyond the Cricket World Cup partnership, which is set to extend until December 2025.
According to Donovan, the Near Foundation’s business development team worked closely with the ICC for four months, dedicating their efforts to researching and identifying use cases specific to the Cricket World Cup. This collaboration is poised to redefine the way fans interact with the sport, creating a more immersive and engaging experience that spans the entire tournament.
As the cricketing world gears up for the 2023 Cricket World Cup, the ICC and the Near Foundation are leading the charge in harnessing the potential of Web3 technology to bring fans closer to the action than ever before. Stay tuned for an unforgettable cricketing experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.
