The England women’s cricket team is at the forefront of a technological revolution, using artificial intelligence (AI) to aid their selection process. Coach Jon Lewis credits this approach for their success in the recent Ashes series comeback against Australia.
Inspired by Indian T20 League: WPL
Jon Lewis first encountered AI selection software while coaching in the Indian T20 Women’s Premier League. He works with UP Warriorz in WPL who according to Lewis uses Artificial Intelligence in picking their team as per Daily Mail.
Developed by the London-based firm PSi, the technology has also been adopted by other sporting teams such as the England national men’s rugby team and Wigan Athletic FC.
How does AI help pick Cricket Teams?
The AI software allows coaches to simulate different team combinations and how they might fare against opposing teams. Lewis explains, “We can run simulations…to give us an idea about how those teams may match up against each other.” The software can analyze 250,000 potential scenarios for each team combination, providing valuable insights.
Winning Decision: Charlie Dean
Lewis utilized AI technology during the tense Ashes series to make a crucial selection decision. The software highlighted the potential impact of off-spinner Charlie Dean, who was brought into the team after the first T20 match.
Dean’s inclusion proved to be a masterstroke, as she took a key wicket in the third T20 match, helping England win the series and momentum in the Ashes.
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AI: A Tool, Not a Replacement
Lewis emphasizes that AI remains a tool to support human decision-making, not a replacement for selectors. “What data can do is give you a really objective view of what could happen,” he explains. AI assists in analyzing complex data and identifying potential strengths and weaknesses, aiding coaches in making informed selection choices.
England Cricket joins AI Revolution
The England women’s team is not alone in embracing AI for team selection. Previously, the England men’s team used a different simulation system, highlighting a growing trend in cricket to leverage technology for better performance. As AI continues to evolve, it’s likely to play an increasingly important role in the future of cricket strategy.
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