Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella builds AI cricket app, picks all-time India Test XI

From experimenting with an AI-driven cricket analysis tool to expanding partnerships with the Indian government, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella highlighted how artificial intelligence is shaping both personal innovation and large-scale workforce transformation in India.

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella has revealed that he has been spending his personal time building an artificial intelligence–based cricket analysis application, reflecting both his passion for the sport and his enthusiasm for emerging AI capabilities. The tool, developed as a personal project, was even used to select an all-time Indian Test cricket playing XI.

Nadella explained that the AI system was designed to evaluate data, compare viewpoints and present structured reasoning behind each decision. The app analysed player records, performance contexts and leadership qualities, generating clear explanations for its recommendations. One of the more debated outcomes was the choice of team captain, where the system weighed the merits of Virat Kohli and Mahendra Singh Dhoni before narrowly favouring Kohli.

AI beyond personal projects

Beyond experimentation, Nadella’s India visit also underscored Microsoft’s broader focus on applying AI at scale. During the trip, Microsoft signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Labour and Employment to strengthen job creation and skills development across the country. The partnership aims to align digital tools with national employment initiatives.

As part of the agreement, Microsoft plans to onboard more than 15,000 employers and partners from its global ecosystem onto the National Career Service platform. Officials said this move would expand access to formal employment opportunities and support fast-growing sectors of the economy.

Strengthening workforce readiness

The collaboration also builds on DigiSaksham, an initiative focused on AI-led skilling. Through this programme, young professionals will receive training in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity and productivity technologies, preparing them for both domestic and international roles.

Nadella also acknowledged India’s progress in expanding social protection coverage, noting the growing reach of platforms such as e-Shram and the National Career Service. He said embedding AI into these systems enables data-driven policymaking and brings unorganised workers into the formal safety net, reinforcing India’s ambition to scale inclusive, technology-led growth.