Anil Kumble's Start-up Launches Microsoft AI-Enabled Power Bat

The technology start-up of Anil Kumble, Spektacom Technologies on Thursday launched the “Power Bat” — a unique tool powered by Microsoft’s Azure Cloud platform and its Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) services.

Meanwhile, the Power Bat can provide real-time data on a player’s performance based on different parameters such as the speed of the ball on impact, a twist on impact and quality of the shot. Spektacom and Microsoft roped in Star India as the broadcasting partner to provide fans and viewers with a new way to engage with the sport.

“Our vision is to bring sports closer to fans through interesting ways of engagement using real-time sports analytics. At the same time, it is important that the technologies used are seamless and do not disrupt the game or obstruct the players,” Anil Kumble said.

“With Microsoft, we have been able to create a secure and effective solution. And with Star India, we have a partner that can stimulate and excite fan engagement,” he added.

At the core of the technology is a lightweight sticker, stuck on the shoulder of the bat. In a live match, as soon as the batsman hits the ball, data on different parameters are captured in a new unit of measurement titled Power Speks. Microsoft’s Azure Sphere, an operating system for IoT applications, ensures secured capture and processing of data.

Microsoft is also looking forward to bringing new experiences to cricket fans changing the way they view sport.

“We’re partnering with Spektacom to bring real-time insights and new experiences to cricket fans and players alike, completely changing the way they experience the sport,” Peggy Johnson, Executive Vice President, Microsoft, told IANS.