Indian ODI skipper Shubman Gill drew significant attention during the first One Day International against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland. Fans and commentators noticed Gill wearing a 'Temple' device on the side of his forehead, prompting widespread discussion about its purpose and the International Cricket Council's (ICC) rules regarding wearable technology in international matches.
What is the Temple Device?
The 'Temple' device is a cutting-edge health and performance-monitoring wearable. Developed by a team associated with Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal, it is designed to track changes in cerebral blood flow—the movement of blood through the brain. Utilizing optical sensors and a technology called BrainFlow, the device collects physiological signals that can offer insights into how the body responds to physical activity, stress, and mental workload.
Unlike traditional fitness trackers that focus on metrics like heart rate and sleep, Temple provides an Entropy score, which indicates physiological strain. This information can be valuable for athletes and performance teams seeking to understand exertion and recovery patterns. Badminton star PV Sindhu has also been observed using the Temple device in international competitions.
ICC Rules on Wearable Technology
The ICC has specific regulations governing technology and equipment used by players. Key considerations include whether a device possesses communication capabilities, adheres to equipment rules, and has received official authorization. The Player and Match Officials Area (PMOA) regulations, for instance, strictly prohibit communication devices such as mobile phones and internet-connected gadgets in restricted areas, aiming to protect the integrity of the game.
However, non-communicating performance-monitoring devices may be treated differently. Their use during an international match is contingent on applicable regulations and any required approvals. The distinction between a passive monitoring device and one capable of transmitting or receiving data is crucial. A wearable that only collects physiological information without communication features may face different regulatory questions than a device that can send or receive data during play.
Furthermore, the ICC's clothing and equipment rules also address commercial branding on players' gear. The presence of a visible brand on a wearable device can introduce separate compliance considerations, adding another layer to the regulatory framework surrounding such innovations in professional cricket.