The upcoming three-match T20I series between Afghanistan and India, scheduled for September 13, 15, and 17 in New Delhi, is set to redefine cricket broadcasting. Rights holder ITW Universe has announced that the series will be produced using the same high-end technology, production expertise, and operational know-how employed during the FIFA World Cup. This marks the first instance of a bilateral cricket series being delivered to full FIFA World Cup host-broadcast standards, with the matches set to air live on Sony Sports and stream via FanCode.
At the helm of the production is Jamie Oakford, a veteran director who has overseen every FIFA World Cup since 2002, including the 2014 final. ITW Universe founder Bhairav Shanth emphasized the shift in approach, stating, “We want to move away from the same old production technology that has been used in cricket for the last 10-12 years.” He added that the company fully endorses Oakford’s philosophy of providing viewers with the best possible perspective of the action, promising a fresh experience for both audiences and commercial partners.
The technical overhaul includes the integration of volumetric Free Viewpoint technology, which utilizes a network of cameras to generate a real-time 3D digital twin of the pitch and every player on the field. This innovation allows broadcasters to position virtual cameras anywhere within the action to create unique, immersive replays. Complementing this is the Quidich Innovation Labs’ Spatio system, which overlays broadcast-grade augmented reality onto stabilized drone feeds, enabling sophisticated real-time player tracking, strategy visualization, and dynamic field-placement graphics.
Viewers can also expect high-fidelity visuals from a dedicated ultra-slow-motion camera system, such as the Phantom or Emperor-style class, capable of capturing fielding, stumpings, edges, and bat contact at speeds of 600 frames per second or higher. These features, alongside AI-stabilized POV cameras, advanced Spidercam, and cine-style storytelling techniques, are designed to deliver forensic-quality replays and signature broadcast moments. By leveraging these cutting-edge tools, the production aims to showcase a new standard for Indian cricket coverage. The report also notes that personnel and knowhow will be used for next month’s three-match Afghanistan-India T20I series in New Delhi, fIFA World Cup 2026 production technology.
