In the 21st century, we have seen tremendous technological advancement in each and every field that have made human’s life easier. Technological advancements is proved to be boon for sports, especially in Cricket!
In the bygone days, the cricket games were telecasted in black and white and helmet without grills. In contrast, advanced technology has elevated the cricketing experience for spectators and players as well. The gentleman’s game cricket has been impacted by three major technological advancements. These three methods have been mentioned in this blog.
HOTSPOT
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An Infrared Imaging system is very helpful for this advancement. The impact of a cricket ball on bat as well as the batsman’s pad can be detected by an infrared imaging system by the third umpire. With the help of this technology, umpire can check either the ball has stricken on the pad or on the bat. After examining the impact, the umpire can easily make his decision of leg before wicket (LBW) or caught behind. This investigation is shown on the big screen. So, the audience and players can witness the delivery.
On the opposite sides of the ground, two infrared cameras are situated that continuously record every delivery. Heat is the result of the friction generated by a collision, such as ball on bat, ball on glove, ball on ground or ball on pad. This heat is measured by these two cameras. Hotspot technology is used for reviewing decisions via DRS (Decision Review System). Snick-o-meter and ultra-edge are the rivals of hotspot. Because of the expensiveness, this technology is used in limited international cricket game.
SNICK-O-METER
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With the help of graphically analysing the audio and video during the game, the snick-o-meter identifies has there been any snick? As soon as the ball comes in contact with the bat, there is a fine noise. This is witnessed in the sound waves of the recorded audio. There is another conflict that either the ball has touched with the bat or the gear of a batsman.
There is one unique difference for the sound waves. If the ball impact on the bat, the sound is a sharper and shorter. When there is contact between the ball and gear of a batsman, the sound wave shape becomes fatter.
International Cricket Council has been using this technology from last two decades. It has become one of the essential tools in the cricket, which gives the precise decisions.
MULTIPLE CAMERAS AND MICS
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Due to the innovation of broadcasting equipment, people can watch live cricket match in High definition. The advanced technology that comprises of stump camera, the spider cam, umpire cam, and slow motion camera. These tools have improved the visual performance. Moreover, these tools also help to give accurate decisions. It is a great relief for umpires in the game.
In addition to this, stump mic and player mic not only enhance cricketing experience, but also cater an entertainment as the spectators can listen the internal chat between the players. To cite an example, M.S Dhoni often gives advice to the bowlers. These technology brings people closer to the pitch. So, everyone can enjoy a match thoroughly.
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