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BusinessDay: How AI is helping rugby and other sports

AI tools are revolutionising performance analysis by eliminating the need for manual video reviews.

By Johan Steyn, 7 August 2024


South Africans will be rooting for the Springboks on Saturday as they take on the Wallabies in Brisbane. Especially so, since the next World Cup will be held in Australia, in 2027, and a lot of adaptation will be required before then if the Boks are to take home the trophy for a record fifth time and third time in a row.


In addition to a number of rule changes, some of which are being trialed in this year's southern hemisphere Rugby Championship, rugby is about to get a huge technological boost that will change every part of the game. Platforms that use artificial intelligence (AI) will change coaching tactics to on-field gameplay strategies. This effect will not be felt only in international rugby but hopefully also at local club, university and school levels. 


AI sports tools and prediction analytics have been around for a while: it is already possible to use AI programs to look at how well players did in matches. These algorithms can look at speed, the number of successful tackles and ball possession statistics. With this information coaches can make smart changes to players and how they perform. It lets choices be based on data, which is like having an extra set of very smart eyes watching the game.


In sports that are hard on the body, such as rugby, it's very important to avoid injuries. AI can determine when there is a high risk by looking at how players move, how hard they get hit, and how often they get hurt. This improves the ability of the team’s medical staff to suggest changes to training regimes or game strategy.


Data gathering is pivotal in modern rugby, with AI tools revolutionising performance analysis by eliminating the need for manual video reviews. Coaching teams can instantly enhance performance by uploading match footage, allowing advanced video analytics to streamline and improve the process. By leveraging AI computer vision software to detect crucial events such as referee decisions, coaches can immediately begin troubleshooting and performance enhancement. Advanced tools track player movements, ball control, team formations and more using machine learning abilities on game footage, even enabling coaches to analyse opponents’ strategies.


Real-time tracking of players’ physiological data using wearables is another key component. Devices equipped with gyroscopes, magnetometers, accelerometers, and GPS trackers measure speed, distance, heart rate, body temperature and more, and are commonly embedded in players’ jerseys or boots, collecting data during practice and games.


Additionally, drones capture game data from unique perspectives unattainable from ground level, helping teams analyse formations and spatial dynamics to devise effective tactics. Premiership Rugby clubs like Saracens utilise drones for tactical research and player positioning, further underscoring the importance of comprehensive data gathering in rugby.


AI is not just transforming the game on the pitch but also revolutionising how it is presented to fans globally. Automated camera systems can track the most critical match activities, ensuring viewers don’t miss anything. AI can construct highlight reels in real time for rapid replays and analyses, significantly enhancing the viewing experience. AI platforms are making strides in fan engagement by using chatbots to provide instant updates on matches and player statistics. Advanced systems can hyper-personalise content in real time based on a fan’s past interactions and choices, making the experience more engaging and personalised.


As the Springboks gear up for the 2027 World Cup in Australia, the excitement around AI-driven advancements in rugby is palpable. These innovations promise to revolutionise coaching tactics, on-field strategies, injury prevention and fan engagement, making the sport smarter, safer and more thrilling than before. The future of rugby is bright and exhilarating with AI at the helm.


• Steyn, a human-centred AI advocate and thought leader, is the founder of AIforBusiness.net.

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