Blockchain to Resolve Discrepancies in Cricket: A New Horizon

Blockchain technology is not just linked with cryptocurrencies; it can reduce various administrative and economic mismatches in cricket. Mismatches arise in board subscriptions, and match results due to a lack of trusted transactions, which can be resolved via blockchain solutions. The application of blockchain technology in cricket is still in its nascent stage. However, a notable fact is that in 2026, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) began using blockchain for pilot projects on digital identity for cricketers. The aim was to safeguard player data and prevent theft. Blockchain acts as a decentralized ledger in creating digital identities for players, making the risk of hacking or alteration negligible. There are numerous benefits to using blockchain technology in cricket and identification. First, tracking a player's career ledger is easy. A player's history, statistics, injury records, and series victories are stored on a decentralized network, which cannot be altered by any single individual or organization. Similarly, when match results, ranking points, and bonus payments are stored on the blockchain, it helps resolve any baseless claims or disputes. Specifically, blockchain technology can also play a positive role in shifting the power dynamics of cricket players. In international cricket contracts, just as player unions historically increased power through organization, blockchain technology can create a transparent and secure process. Players can directly audit their contracts and earnings on the blockchain, potentially introducing a new level of transparency. The most promising application is in auditing the annual budget and expenses of cricket boards. For instance, there have been disputes over financial audit due to lack of evidence with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) or western boards. By recording each expense transaction on a public blockchain ledger, such as Ethereum, a transparent picture of the flow of funds would be created for the public. This significantly increases the potential for removing democratic erosion and malpractice. Despite the promising prospects of blockchain in cricket, some fundamental questions remain. First, how will the security of sensitive player information be ensured on a decentralized network? Second, how will the carbon footprint and environmental impact of blockchain technology be mitigated? Third, how will a blockchain-based contract or transaction be legally recognized, and what will be the role of a third-party mediator?