Satya Nadella’s AI-powered cricket app sparks debate after choosing Virat Kohli over MS Dhoni as captain, analyzing IPL stats, leadership and impact.
Published: December 12, 2025 10:41 AM IST
New Delhi: Microsoft CEO and cricket enthusiast Satya Nadella gave a live demo during an event in Hyderabad that left cricket fans stunned. Nadella, using GitHub Copilot and Azure AI Foundry, developed an AI-based app on stage that analyzes player performance, data, and leadership metrics to select a “dream IPL team.” But the biggest surprise came when the AI tool ranked Virat Kohli over Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the captain.
Nadella’s Live Coding Show: AI Picks Kohli as Captain
During the event, Nadella asked the AI to select the best IPL XI based on the 2025 auction data. The tool prioritized factors like batting strike rate, consistency, and impact—and the result came in Kohli’s favor.
Addressing the crowd, Nadella jokingly remarked, “The data doesn’t lie—Kohli is ahead this time.”
Combining AI and Cricket: Nadella’s Big Vision
Satya Nadella stated that the future belongs to sports analytics, and AI will play a major role in this—whether it’s predicting match outcomes, team combinations, or talent scouting.
Microsoft aims to make technology more useful for India’s vast sports industry.
Kohli vs. Dhoni: Do statistics really put Kohli ahead?
Virat Kohli’s strengths include:
- Average of over 40 in the IPL
- Excellent strike rate while chasing targets
- Consistency and reliable performance at the top of the order
Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s strengths include:
- Over 60% win percentage as captain
- Classic finishing style
- Unparalleled ability to handle match pressure
AI’s verdict:
Kohli’s data showed a stronger fit for the modern demands of T20.
The Growing Role of AI in India’s Sports Ecosystem
Nadella concluded, “Cricket is my first love, and AI makes it smarter.” His app could be used in the future in many areas, including fan analytics, team planning, and talent discovery.
Story Highlights
- Satya Nadella developed an AI-based cricket app through live coding.
- AI chose Kohli over Dhoni as the captain of its dream IPL team.
- Based on data, Kohli gained an edge in strike rate and consistency.
- Nadella said, “AI will completely transform sports analytics in the coming years.”
Also Read:
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: india.com
