The upcoming three-match Afghanistan-India T20I series in New Delhi is set to receive a major broadcast upgrade, with technology, personnel and production expertise associated with the FIFA World Cup 2026 set to be used for the series.
ITW Universe, the broadcast rights holder, said the series will be produced using FIFA World Cup-level host-broadcast standards, bringing advanced camera systems, augmented reality and immersive viewing technology to cricket coverage.
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“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,” ITW Universe said in a statement, as reported by Cricbuzz.
The three matches will be played on Sept. 13, 15 and 17. They will be telecast on Sony Sports and streamed on FanCode.
The production will feature AI-stabilised POV cameras, volumetric free-viewpoint technology, an advanced Spidercam system, ultra-slow-motion cameras and cine-style storytelling.
The broadcast will be directed by Jamie Oakford, who has worked on multiple FIFA World Cups.
“We endorse his philosophy, which is to give the viewer the best seat in the house,” Bhairav Shanth, founder of ITW Universe, said.
AI And 3D Technology To Offer New Viewing Angles
One of the key additions will be Quidich Innovation Labs' Spatio system, which combines broadcast-grade augmented reality, stabilised aerial footage and real-time optical player tracking.
The technology can be used to create field-placement graphics, visualise strategies and provide new perspectives on the action during the matches.
Ultra-Slow-Motion Cameras For Detailed Replays
The series will also use ultra-slow-motion camera systems capable of recording at more than 600 frames per second.
These cameras can capture deliveries, bat contact, edges, stumpings and fielding actions in greater detail, allowing broadcasters to produce high-definition slow-motion replays.
Volumetric Technology For Free-Viewpoint Replays
Volumetric free-viewpoint technology will also be used to create a digital representation of the playing area and players using a network of cameras.
This will allow the production team to generate virtual camera angles and create replays from perspectives that may not be possible with conventional broadcast cameras.
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“We want to move away from the same old production technology that has been used in cricket for the last 10-12 years,” Shanth said, adding that the series would offer new experiences for viewers and brands.
The series will also be notable for another reason: it will mark the first time India will play a bilateral series at home while another nation serves as the official host, with Afghanistan hosting the three-match T20I series in New Delhi.
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