ICC sets sights on developing game of its own to improve as well as diversify revenue streams in near future.
ICC is aiming to launch its first mobile cricket game offering, as it looks to diversify revenue streams. This is in view of broadcast rights losing value in the near future.
Even though cricket gaming has been around for decades. This is thought to be the first time the game’s governing body would create its own game. The hope is to gain a piece of what is thought to be a profitable, rapidly expanding business.
At the ICC’s board meetings, which start today in Harare, the digital team will present its intentions to the chief executives’ committee (CEC). Although the concept has been considered at earlier meetings. The ICC is now seeking approval from Full Members to issue a call for developers to create a game that will, at least initially, be available on mobile devices.
The way ahead for ICC
The ICC owning a game offering might be a crucial time in this situation. FIFA’s hugely successful 30-year association with game creator EA Sports, which only concluded in 2023, continues to be the gold standard, initially on game consoles and then on mobile devices. However, a lot will rely on how the ICC handles the intricate terrain surrounding players’ name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights.
Securing licensing rights for player names was a logistical nightmare. This is one of the reasons EA Sports ended its cricket series in 2007. The previous edition famously featured rights for players from certain teams. However, fake names that were similar to the real names for players from other nations, including India.
Given the frequently antagonistic character of the relationship and their recent arguments over related matters. The ICC acknowledges that it will need to reach some sort of license agreement with WCA, but any deal may not be simple.
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