The International Cricket Council (ICC) has partnered with Google to introduce AI-powered fan experiences for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. As part of the agreement, Google Gemini has been named the Official AI Fan Companion, while Google Pixel has become the Official Smartphone for the tournament.
The ICC and Google have launched interactive fan initiatives powered by Gemini’s generative AI and Pixel’s imaging capabilities. The collaboration has focused on enhancing digital engagement through new creative tools, immersive content and fan participation formats integrated across the tournament journey.
The partnership has begun with the Gemini “Craziest Fan Kaun” contest, where fans have used Gemini’s image generation technology to create personalised ‘Crazy Fan’ avatars. Selected participants have been offered stadium access and match-day experiences while showcasing their AI-designed looks.
Google and the ICC have introduced a dedicated “Explore Cricket” tab within the Gemini app, which has provided interactive features including simplified rule explanations, quizzes and fan challenges such as “Guess the Player” and “Design a new cricket format”. The platform has delivered refreshed weekly content aimed at sustaining fan interaction throughout the tournament cycle.
Gemini has also generated shareable insight cards that have compiled player trivia, milestones and personality-driven content using publicly available information. These digital snapshots have enabled fans to share cricket-related content across social platforms.
As the Official Smartphone partner, Google Pixel has captured match visuals through its camera technology and has delivered new stadium perspectives through high-resolution imagery and video formats. These visuals have been shared across broadcast and social media touchpoints to extend fan access beyond the venue.
The ICC and Google have positioned the current rollout as the first phase of the collaboration, with additional AI-led features and engagement tools expected to be introduced during the tournament period.
ICC Chief Executive, Sanjog Gupta, said: “This partnership brings together two global organisations united by consumer focus, scale, purpose and innovation. Google’s leadership in connection, search & discovery and AI, aligns strongly with the ICC’s ambition to serve fans better, delivering phygital experiences across touchpoints. Together, we will use technology to deepen engagement, enhance experiences and make cricket more accessible and meaningful for fans worldwide.”
Shekar Khosla, VP Marketing at Google India, said: “We were thrilled to witness firsthand during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 how AI can enhance and delight the fan experience. Now, as we strengthen our partnership with the ICC for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, we are bringing together Gemini’s generative capabilities and Pixel’s advanced imaging to deliver features that empower fans with new avenues for creativity and celebration. We are excited to see how these innovations help a new generation of digital-first fans celebrate the spirit of cricket.”
