Introduction
In a rapidly evolving sports landscape, former India captain and coach Ravi Shastri has drawn a compelling parallel — just like a helmet is vital in a cricketer’s kit, so too are media and technology. Speaking at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai on May 2, 2025, Shastri emphasized how essential digital tools have become for modern athletes.
1. Media as a Player’s Helmet
“Media and technology are like helmets in a cricket kit,” Shastri said. Without embracing these, he stressed, the sport wouldn’t have evolved over the last 40–45 years. While his era had just radio and Doordarshan, today’s cricketers have access to a digital world of content creation, real-time analytics, and global visibility.
2. Embracing AI for Growth
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a powerful ally for athletes. “AI is coming into play now big time. It’s for your benefit,” Shastri explained, underlining how players can now use AI tools to analyze performance, recover faster, and strategize against opponents.
3. From Logos to Influence: Evolution of Brand Engagement
Previously, a cricketer’s engagement with brands was limited to advertising and logos. Now, with social media and streaming platforms, players have become full-fledged influencers with their own digital identity and followings — a transformation Shastri credits to media’s expanded role.
4. Boosted Visibility Through Multiple Platforms
Shastri noted that players today enjoy unprecedented visibility. “There was no podcast, no social media,” he said of his playing days. In contrast, today’s athletes can connect directly with fans via YouTube, Instagram, and even personal apps.
5. Role of Sports in Post-Covid Positivity
Referencing the COVID-19 pandemic, Shastri said sports played a crucial role in uplifting public morale. “It brought smiles to faces when India played… because of the platforms that exist.” Media ensured games reached fans even during the toughest times.
6. Tech-Fueled Self-Improvement
Modern players benefit from technologies that help them study their own performance. “Today, a player can go back and watch himself 100 times,” said Shastri, pointing to the accessibility of replays, analytics, and match footage that aid skill development.
7. Tactical Edge Through Deep Data
“There’s technology to go into detail — about your opponent, about yourself,” Shastri emphasized. From motion capture to biometric insights, modern tech gives players an edge in preparation and execution against any opponent.
Conclusion
Ravi Shastri’s insights from the WAVES 2025 summit serve as a clarion call for today’s athletes: embrace media and technology as integral tools for success. In a world driven by AI, digital branding, and omnipresent media, staying ahead means evolving with the game — both on and off the field.
For more insights into cricket’s digital evolution, don’t miss our related post: Virat Kohli on the Beauty and Challenge of ODI Cricket.
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