DUBAI – Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli has officially stepped into a new sporting venture — and this time, it’s all about strikes and spares. Kohli has been announced as a major investor in the World Bowling League (WBL), signaling a bold move toward reshaping the future of bowling on a global scale.
The announcement, made recently in Dubai, confirmed Kohli joining forces with Mookie Betts of the Los Angeles Dodgers as high-profile partners in the innovative league. The WBL, conceptualized and launched by Dubai-based entrepreneur Adi K. Mishra, aims to modernize bowling through dynamic gameplay, mixed-gender teams, and a series of international events designed to elevate the sport’s global presence.
A New Vision for Bowling
For Kohli, who is known worldwide for his unmatched passion for cricket, the love for bowling started early. “I started bowling when I was 11 years old, spinning the ball by 12,” the 36-year-old icon shared. “It’s evident how popular the sport is while being underappreciated as a business proposition.”
Kohli, who ranks as the third-most-followed athlete on Instagram—trailing only football legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi—brings significant star power and influence to the WBL. His involvement is expected to amplify attention toward the sport and attract a newer, younger audience.
Why the World Bowling League Matters
Founded with a futuristic vision, the World Bowling League plans to shake up the traditional image of bowling. By introducing mixed-gender team formats, global franchise models, and events across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, the league seeks to rebrand bowling into a thrilling spectator-friendly experience.
League founder Adi K. Mishra emphasized the significance of Kohli’s involvement. “When I discovered Virat is also a bowler, it was exciting to align on this new-age vision for the sport,” he said. “Virat’s relentless drive for sports mirrors our own. Bowling is a sleeping giant, and we’re ready to awaken it.”
What’s Next for the WBL?
Although the full list of franchises is yet to be revealed, global cities — including Dubai — are expected to host teams. As per earlier announcements, the WBL plans to organize 12 to 15 events annually with 8 to 12 franchise teams, each required to have at least two female players—promoting inclusivity and gender balance from the outset.
With Kohli on board and a strong foundation laid by visionaries like Mishra and Betts, the WBL is gearing up to become a disruptive force in international sports.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s entry into the bowling world as an investor marks a unique and exciting chapter in his journey as a global sports figure. His association with the World Bowling League not only brings attention to an underrepresented sport but also reflects his continued commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and global sports development. As the league gears up for its debut events, fans worldwide eagerly await what could be the next big phenomenon in sports entertainment.