In the constantly evolving world of technology, sport is the latest frontier being explored. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is the latest major body to tap into the power of the blockchain, specifically the NEAR blockchain. The ICC is set to use NEAR’s Blockchain Operating System to significantly enhance fan engagement during the eagerly anticipated 2023 Cricket World Cup, set to take place in India.
This decision offers an exciting glimpse into the future of fan engagement in sports, powered by blockchain technology. The Web3 fan engagement app is targeted at driving fun interaction before, during, and after matches throughout the tournament. This fan-centric approach is already being widely appreciated, as it promises a personalized experience for the fans extending far beyond the traditional realms of watching a match.
Such an approach was tested previously in 2022 with the ICC’s first venture into the Web3 world – an NFT platform called FanCraze. This allowed fans to own highlights of iconic moments from various ICC tournaments, which received immense appreciation from dedicated followers of cricket.
However, it’s worth noting that while this blockchain-based engagement method may add a new dimension to fan interaction, certain complexities are also introduced. For one, it requires an understanding of the technology by the fans, which may alienate a section of non-tech-savvy followers. It will also require continued support and updates to ensure smooth operation throughout the tournament.
Another key feature of this partnership is the spotlight on NEAR’s Blockchain Operating System’s interoperability. Being a layer-1 blockchain, NEAR boasts scalable infrastructure that supports efficient communication, smart contracts, and transaction capabilities with multiple blockchain ecosystems.
On the flip side, as it stands today, the interoperability of blockchains remains an uphill task. While NEAR’s partnership with ICC may serve as an example of successful collaboration, the effective execution of such cross-coordination remains a challenge. This has raised a few eyebrows, as some skeptics question if Web3 applications are ready for mass-market applications.
Bringing such a revolutionary technology into association with one of the most popular sports in the world opens the doors to a multitude of opportunities. It also raises important questions on the widespread adoption of blockchain in mainstream realms beyond the financial world. Whether this foray of the blockchain into the world of sports is destined to change the game for better or worse, only time will tell.
Source: Cointelegraph
