I would have been a different player today: Sir Richard Hadlee

New Zealand cricketing legend bats for technology to enhance sports

Sir Richard Hadlee, New Zealand cricketing legend, took to the dais at the Nasscom India Leadership Forum today and spoke about how technology has changed the way cricket is played and seen.

"Technology has enhanced the game," he said. "It has changed the viewing spectacle on TV, has begun attracting more viewers and sponsors. It has become easier for coaches to explain to their players what is right and what should be avoided. Had such technology been around in the 70's and the 80's when I was playing, I would have been a very different player," he added.

Sir Hadlee also said that the use of technology in sports is the way forward and that neither can exist without the other. It must be used if it is conclusive, as in the case of Decision Review System (DRS), which allows the players to challenge the umpire's decision. "The bottom line is that players want the right decision as it makes a significant difference in winning or losing a match," he added.

The cameras around the pitch also make analysis of a player's style easy and match-viewing an exciting experience. Similar technologies are also being used in golf, tennis and other sports.

He also talked about tie-ups between technology firms of India and New Zealand that allow for wider reach of cricket and other sports. Vista Entertainment and Book My Show have collaborated to sell tickets for cricket matches and Virtual Eye specialises in animation research that etches out the tiniest detail of all factors, including weather conditions,  that contribute to a player's game and the outcome of a match.

Sir Hadlee pitched for more such business collaborations between technology companies of New Zealand and India to capitalise on the talent available in both countries and build stronger ties.