Rugby On The Blockchain

Niall Moore
Sep 3, 2018 · 2 min read

The way that World Rugby calculates the current rankings is quite interesting. Essentially the result of a game can be boiled down to an exchange of value between two teams. With the winner gaining points and the loser losing the same amount of points.

Ireland are doing quite well…

Today on “Completely Frivolous Blockchain Uses”, I propose that this exchange of value could be stored on a blockchain. Each game would represent a transaction on the chain, with the resulting balance being publicly available and the entire ranking history, including each individual transaction being fully visible and queryable on a public blockchain.

Take the example of Ireland’s upcoming victory over New Zealand (I can dream). Based on the current ranking system, there is a 4.4 point differential between the teams. As Ireland have home advantage, there is an added 3 point bonus given to them, leaving the differential in ranking points as 1.4 in favour of New Zealand.

Based on the way that the ranking points are calculated, this will result in a 1.14 point gain for Ireland, and a 1.14 point loss for New Zealand. In blockchain terms, this amounts to a transaction between the two that can easily be represented on a chain, with the ranking point balances of the two adjusted accordingly.

Unfortunately my more important work has to take precedence for now, but if anyone considering tacking part in our hackathon is reading, then perhaps let this be a little hint as to the way to this judge’s heart…

Niall Moore

HYCON CTO, Blockchain Enthusiast, Rugby Fanatic

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