Cricket legend Virat Kohli joins The World Bowling League as a strategic investor

The World Bowling League has announced Indian cricket star Virat Kohli as a strategic investor, marking a high-profile addition to the nascent global sports league that is attempting to reposition bowling as a mainstream spectator sport.

It recently announced MLB superstar and 3 time World Series Champion Mookie Betts’ Team OMG as the first Franchise in the league.

Founded by Adi K. Mishra, the WBL is a global sports league dedicated to transforming bowling into an aspirational product for athletes and fans. With innovative formats, iconic venues, and cutting-edge technology, the WBL aims to elevate bowling to new heights on the global stage.

Kohli, who has long been associated with cricket’s transformation into a high-impact entertainment product, referenced his early connection to bowling as a formative influence.

“I started bowling when I was 11 years old, spinning the ball by 12,” he said. “It is evident how popular the sport is while being underappreciated as a business proposition. Adi K Mishra’s vision to redefine bowling is unique, and after our success with Team Blue Rising in the E1 series, I’m thrilled to join the WBL as an investor and partner.”

Kohli’s involvement also brings significant visibility to the WBL. With over 270 million Instagram followers, he is among the most influential athletes globally, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in follower count.

Adi K. Mishra, Founder and CEO of League Sports Co., echoed Kohli’s enthusiasm: “Elite-level bowling is a world of intricate challenges—from lanes with unique topographies and thousands of 3D-printed oil patterns to balls that react differently with every roll. When I discovered Virat is also a bowler, it was exciting to align on this new-age vision for the sport. Virat’s relentless drive for sports mirrors our own. Every week, we uncover more about bowling’s global depth and fascinating history - it’s a sleeping giant we’re ready to awaken.”