The world of cricket, one of the most popular sports globally, has a unique frenzy, especially in South Asian countries. Whenever a cricket match is underway in India, thousands of fans flock to the stadium to catch the action live. Meanwhile, those watching from the comfort of their homes are treated to a multi-angled view of the game, from the intricacies of bowling and batting to the strategic nuances of fielding. But have you ever wondered what goes into producing a cricket match? How many cameras are required, and what’s the scale of the crew involved? Let’s delve into the A-to-Z of cricket production and uncover the fascinating details.
Behind the scenes of a cricket match, the production process is a meticulously planned and executed affair. The first step involves preparing the stadium, and with broadcasting rights now selling for thousands of crores of rupees, the quality of the broadcast must be top-notch. To achieve this, between 32 to 40 cameras are installed around the stadium, each costing a staggering 80 lakh to 1 crore rupees. If we assume 40 cameras are used for a match, with each costing 80 lakh rupees, the total cost of the cameras alone would exceed 32 crore rupees.
These cameras are connected by cables that lead to the production control room (PCR), where the director and vision mixer are stationed. The director has a bank of large TV screens in front of them, displaying the feed from each camera. They decide which camera feed to go live with and when, while the VT coordinator, responsible for replays, works in tandem. The director’s role is crucial, but there’s another person who plays an equally, if not more, important part in the PCR.
The vision mixer is the unsung hero of the PCR, with a massive keyboard in front of them featuring over 200 buttons. As the director calls out instructions, the vision mixer rapidly presses the corresponding buttons to switch between camera feeds. It’s a high-pressure job that requires lightning-quick reflexes and attention to detail. Interestingly, a cricket match production involves a massive crew of around 700 to 800 people, working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the action to life on our screens.
As we watch our favorite teams battle it out on the field, it’s easy to overlook the sheer scale and complexity of the production process. From the cameras and crew to the director and vision mixer, each component plays a vital role in creating an immersive experience for fans worldwide. The next time you’re glued to your screen, watching a thrilling cricket match, remember the incredible amount of work that goes into bringing the game to life.