New Electra bails, stumps to light up Big Bash

Fox Cricket will debut a revolutionary set of LED stumps in the Big Bash clash on Friday night between the Sydney Sixers and Adelaide Strikers at the SCG, and the stunning new technology will impress players as well as fans.

The primary objective of the Electra Stumps, the brainchild of former Australian cricketer Neil Maxwell and Balmain rugby league legend Benny Elias, is to engage fans.

The stumps will light up and flash when a wicket is taken or a boundary is smashed.

The Electra stumps also have the added benefit of solving a major problem for the game in that they no longer require the use of the heavier, magnet-operated “Zinger bails”, which on occasion would not dislodge when struck.

Players had complained to broadcasters and Cricket Australia after multiple mystifying instances in the Big Bash when the Zingers would remain on top of the stumps despite being hit due to a slight magnetic sensor and the extra weight of the batteries.

The new Electra Stumps use bails of a standard weight and don’t require a magnet, meaning the entertainment they provide does not compromise the game in any way.

Fox Cricket has been working with Cross Bar Promotions, which is run by Maxwell and Elias, on the technology for more than two years.

It is hoped the concept will be approved by the International Cricket Council to be used in World Cups and other international events.

Electra Stumps will be used in Fox Cricket BBL matches for the rest of the season, having been rigorously tested against 160km/h bowling.

“Innovation is an important pillar across all Fox Sports productions,” Fox Cricket chief Matt Weiss said.

“Our cricket head of innovation, Brad McNamara, and our technology partner, Cross Bar, have been developing this for over two years.

“It is exciting technology that will take the viewing experience at home and in the stadium to another level. The possibilities are endless.”

Creators say the role of the Electra Stumps will expand to become the epicentre for on-field and broadcast innovations.

When a wicket is taken between the Sixers and Strikers on Friday night, the stumps will light up red. When a boundary is hit, the stumps will scroll up different colours.

During breaks in overs, the stumps will flash to the beat of music being played over the stadium sound system.

“Electra stumps are designed as a fan engagement tool as a priority,” Maxwell said.

More Coverage

Predicted teams: Every round 2 BBL line-up, will Morris play?

Tim Michell

‘Real courage’: Heartache behind Dwarshuis’ starring hand

Lachlan McKirdy

“They are designed to accentuate key moments in the game. Fours, sixes, free hits.

“This is the first generation of them. They will evolve to have a range of innovations that will stem from this.

“Stumps will become very much a control centre for future innovations and elevated technologies.”