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ICC Decides to Acquire Player Rights Directly for Upcoming Cricket Mobile Game Project
ICC Opts Out of WCA and Targets Boards for Player Rights Acquisition
In a strategic shift, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed it will bypass the World Cricketers’ Association (WCA) when securing player rights for its planned mobile cricket game. Instead, the ICC will directly negotiate with member boards to acquire rights to player likenesses and performances.
As confirmed in a memo shared with delegates at the Annual Conference in Singapore, the ICC Board meeting in Harare in April had explicitly directed that “[all] players’ rights for this project would be secured through the members.”
Addressing the Retired Legends Dilemma
Inclusion of Retired Icons Like Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni
One of the more complex aspects is onboarding retired stars who are no longer contracted with national boards. Legendary players such as Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni fall outside the remit of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and their absence from the game could diminish its appeal. During the Singapore meeting, ICC management proposed forming a dedicated working group to resolve licensing of retired players.
Project Roadmap and Timeline
The ICC aims to have all rights secured and a preferred development partner identified before its October board meeting. As per the internal note, “management will be in touch with members shortly to formalise the licence of rights required for the mobile game.” All contractual agreements are expected to be finalized by October.
Financial Potential of Cricket Mobile Gaming
A Promising Revenue Stream
ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta emphasized the ambitious scale of the venture, stating: “It (mobile gaming in cricket) will be bigger than the movies.” With the global mobile gaming market valued at USD 249.6 billion in 2022 and expected to rise to USD 665.8 billion by 2030, the opportunity is vast. The Asia Pacific region, dominating with a 46% share, is a core focus area.
In India, the online gaming industry is projected to nearly double to INR 66,000 crore by 2028, potentially generating 2–3 lakh new jobs.
Tender Process and Partner Selection
After an initial expression of interest (EOI), 15 respondents were shortlisted based on technical competence and financial strength. These candidates received an Invitation to Tender (ITT) and are expected to submit detailed proposals by early September. Subsequent evaluation will focus on both technical and commercial merit.
Consultancy Support from A&W Capital
Role in Developing Licensing and Revenue Models
To aid in structuring distribution and monetization strategies, the ICC has appointed A&W Capital as an independent consultant following a competitive process involving firms like Deloitte and BCG. A&W’s expertise in the Indian gaming and cricket ecosystem reportedly made them the preferred choice. They will present valuation and licensing models at the October board meeting.
What Lies Ahead for the ICC Gaming Initiative
Though the roadmap is comprehensive, insiders believe the project may require over a year to fully launch. Key elements still pending include finalizing retired players’ rights, selecting a development partner, and setting commercial terms. A small working group is expected to guide crucial decisions.
🔗 Related internal article: For more insight into ICC’s digital initiatives, check our coverage on the ICC’s virtual fan engagement strategies.
Detailed global gaming market outlook available at Fortune Business Insights.
