Image Source: Puma
[Saba Sports News] In a notable move, Indian cricket star Virat Kohli is ending his eight-year endorsement deal with Puma India. Since 2017, the 35-year-old cricketer, originally from Delhi, has been a key figure for the international sportswear giant, featuring prominently in their advertising campaigns across billboards, TV, and social media.
Kohli, who signed a landmark INR 110 crore agreement with Puma in 2017, is now set to become the brand ambassador for Agilitas Sports, a company established by Abhishek Ganguly, the former Managing Director of Puma India. Although specifics of the deal with Agilitas Sports, founded in May 2023, remain undisclosed, it is anticipated to be a long-term arrangement focusing on brand promotion.
There’s currently uncertainty around Kohli’s return to the Indian cricket team. He missed the first two Tests against England due to personal reasons, with his close friend AB de Villiers disclosing that Kohli is expecting his second child. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet confirmed Kohli’s participation in the third Test at Rajkot. Reports suggest KL Rahul is prepared to play if needed.
The team selection dynamics also hinge on Kohli’s availability, affecting players like Rajat Patidar and Shreyas Iyer. Additionally, there’s no news on Mohammed Shami’s recovery from an ankle injury, and Ravindra Jadeja’s comeback in the Rajkot Test remains uncertain.