Technology is Transforming the Future of Sports: Yuzvendra Chahal

Hyderabad: Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal today launched the SprintX Playmaker Accelerator, a first of- its-kind full-stack accelerator program dedicated to SportsTech, Gaming, eSports and New Age Media startups in India.

The launch event was held at SAS iTowers, Khajaguda, Hyderabad, where Chahal attended as the Chief Guest and unveiled the accelerator initiative aimed at nurturing innovative startups operating at the intersection of sports and technology. Speaking on the occasion, Chahal highlighted the growing influence of technology in modern sports.

“Technology has completely transformed the sporting landscape. Over the last seven to eight years, its integration with sports has grown exponentially. From game planning and strategy development to fitness, wellness, recovery, and performance enhancement, technology has become an indispensable part of an athlete’s journey,” he said.

Referring to cricket, Chahal explained how data and technology help players analyze opponents’ weaknesses, determine optimal bowling lengths, understand pitch conditions, and develop match-specific strategies. He further noted that technology also plays a vital role in post-match recovery, injury management, and overall athlete well-being.

Karthik Yanamandra, Founding Partner of 360D Sports and SprintX, said the accelerator aims to provide comprehensive support to promising startups with innovative ideas in the sports ecosystem.

“SprintX has been created to bridge the gap between innovation and opportunity. We are committed to helping startups scale through mentorship, industry access, pilot programs, market connections, and funding readiness,” he said.

He added that 360D Sports and LegaXy have jointly launched SprintX, making it India’s first dedicated full-stack accelerator focused on SportsTech, Gaming, eSports and New Age Media ventures.

The accelerator will support startups working in areas such as:
* Athlete Training & Performance Technologies
* Artificial Intelligence-Based Coaching Solutions
* Real-Time Performance Feedback Systems
* Athlete Assessment Platforms
* Smart Stadium Technologies
* Sports Data Analytics
* Gaming & eSports
* Fan Engagement Platforms
* Digital Community Platforms
* Content & Media Technologies
* D2C Streaming Solutions
* Broadcast & Entertainment Technologies

SprintX will also facilitate collaborations between startups, leading multinational corporations, and government stakeholders, helping founders gain access to large-scale opportunities and strategic partnerships.

The program is designed to provide funding support of up to ₹25 lakh, subject to eligibility and investment readiness. Karthik Yanamandra also acknowledged the support extended by Mr. Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary, Sports Department, Government of Telangana, for fostering sports innovation and startup growth in the state.

Applications are now open for startups through [www.sprintxcel.com]. The 24-week accelerator program comprises:
*12 Weeks of Intensive Acceleration
*12 Weeks of Structured Mentorship
Each cohort will select **10 startups**, providing them with:
* Market Access Opportunities
* Industry Expert Mentorship
* Pilot Programs
* Business Expansion Support
* Investor Readiness Training
* Funding and Investment Connections

The launch event was attended by former cricketer, sprintx mentor Jayant Yadav, SprintX Mentor G.R. Reddy, Ratnakar, CEO of Hyderabad Angels, Vikrant of Succeed Ventures, LegaXy Co-Founders Mohammed Sirajuddin and Amitesh, along with industry leaders, startup founders, investors, and sports ecosystem stakeholders.