The International Cricket Council (ICC) and Nium have announced the launch of ‘Next In’, a global hackathon open to all cricket technologists, which invites them to create tech-savvy solutions that improve the digital fan experience.

The initiative allows the ICC to dive deeper into web3, metaverse and virtual reality technologies, which will result in improved engagement for the global game.

Additionally, the governing body is seeking entries that explore ground-breaking ways to engage younger cricket fans and merge digital tools to identify solutions to challenges that fans face.

Commenting on the initiative, ICC head of digital, Finn Bradshaw, said: “The best fan engagement ideas for the future of our sport will come from our passionate fans.”

“The ‘Next In’ Hackathon provides a global showcase for innovation from our technology community.

“The ICC is proud to continue these tech-led fan engagement initiatives with Nium and we look forward to seeing what digital experiences our fans dream up,” he said.

Nium SVP and head of global marketing and communications, Jeremiah Glodoveza, added: “Nium believes deeply in helping build a better tomorrow in finance, sport, and technology.

“The ‘Next In’ Hackathon celebrates global innovation, and we are beyond excited to see what the cricket-loving technologists bring to life,” he said.

The first stage will see entrants describe their concept before a shortlist of teams will be asked to build and present their idea to a panel of judges, where the winner will be announced in March this year and will receive a US$10,000 prize.

The announcement comes after Greg Bailey was announced as the independent chair of the governing body.