Investment Endeavors in World Bowling League: Indian Cricket Captain Kohli Diversifies Sports Portfolio
Cricket superstar Virat Kohli has entered the world of bowling as a strategic investor in the upcoming World Bowling League, marking his step into a modernized and globalized version of the traditional sport.
On Wednesday, May 2025, Kohli officialized his involvement, bringing his renowned name and influence to elevate the sport on an international stage.
Boasting 190 million followers on Instagram, Kohli is the third-most followed athlete behind soccer stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, positioning him as a powerful force in attracting broader audiences to the league.
The World Bowling League aims to revolutionize the sport by offering a fresh, captivating format tailored to appeal to a global audience. According to a statement issued by League Sports Co., the league organisers, "the World Bowling League (WBL) is thrilled to welcome cricket icon Virat Kohli as an investor, initiating a new era for bowling."
Notably, Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts was the first to join the WBL by purchasing the inaugural team. Despite yet-to-be-announced franchises and the schedule for the first event, the league's mixed-gender teams are expected to shake up the traditional bowling landscape.
In a statement issued by League Sports Co., Kohli shared his excitement about the venture, "I started bowling when I was 11 years old, spinning the ball by 12. It is evident how popular the sport is while being under-appreciated as a business proposition."
Kohli's foray into the WBL is not his first investment in sports. He already owns a team in the E1 World Championship power-boat series and has a stake in Indian Super League soccer team FC Goa.
Adi K. Mishra, founder and CEO of League Sports Co., expressed his enthusiasm about Kohli's involvement, "Every week, we uncover more about bowling's global depth and fascinating history – it's a sleeping giant we're ready to awaken."
Recently, Kohli, who previously captained the Indian cricket team, announced his retirement from test cricket and will now focus on the 50-over format internationally.
The World Bowling League's pioneering approach to the sport incorporates team-based gameplay, new rules, and numerous international events held at iconic venues, setting the stage for a dynamic and fast-paced experience that aligns with modern sports entertainment trends.
On this exciting journey to revolutionize bowling, cricket icon Virat Kohli, following his retirement from test cricket, has decided to expand his sports investment portfolio by becoming a strategic investor in the World Bowling League. With an eye towards globalizing and modernizing traditional sports, Kohli aims to leverage his influence and business acumen to finance and promote this innovative venture in the realm of sports and finance.