ECB And Microsoft Announce New Technology Partnership

The ECB and Microsoft have announced a new partnership to accelerate the governing body’s ‘Inspiring Generations’ strategic plan to grow cricket and connect communities.

The pair say they will put technology at the heart of delivering long-lasting benefits across all levels of the sport, using Microsoft technology to unlock a range of opportunities from driving innovation across the ECB’s elite teams to providing life-changing skills at grassroots level.

According to the ECB, the partnership will focus on ‘innovative and purpose-led’ initiatives which aim to create meaningful and sustainable changes across three areas: cricket communities, high performance, and cultural transformation.

Digital skills training is set to be provided to grassroot cricket communities over the coming years, which will contribute to Microsoft’s ‘Get On’ campaign, designed to help 1.5 million people build careers in technology by 2024.

The ECB will also work with Microsoft to explore how artificial intelligence, real-time data and analytics can inform the performance of England’s national teams, and will explore whether ball-tracking technology can help ‘unearth the next generation of elite cricketers’ as well as engaging ‘more diverse talent’ across the game.

“This partnership has the potential to transform every level of our game,” said Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, ECB.

“The ability to drive innovation across high performance cricket will support the continued excellence of our elite teams, and the opportunities we will provide together across the whole recreational cricketing community will improve the life chances of many young people and adults.

“We could not have a better partner than Microsoft as we look to put technology at the heart of our business, develop the culture of the game, and bring our purpose to life.”

Clare Barclay, CEO, Microsoft UK, added: “Microsoft is proud to support the England and Wales Cricket Board in its quest to become a digital-first organisation that can meet the needs and expectations of fans and players now and in the future.

“A key aspect of our work together is to create long lasting economic change in local communities by helping people acquire digital skills so vital to their futures. This partnership is a great example of how we at Microsoft can fulfil our mission of empowering people and organisations around the world to achieve more.”