Indian cricketer Virat Kohli is all set to join Agilitas Sports, a brand established by the former Managing Director of Puma India. Kohli, who previously had his own line called One8, signed a lucrative ₹110 crore deal with Puma in 2017, making him their main ambassador. Having previously been associated with Nike and Adidas, Kohli joined Puma on a long-term contract spanning eight years. However, after completing six years with the brand, Kohli has decided to part ways and join Agilitas Sports instead.
As per reports from CNBC TV18, Kohli’s departure from Puma to join Agilitas Sports, formed by Abhishek Ganguly, the former managing director of Puma, has been confirmed. Ganguly left Puma in May 2023 and ventured into establishing the new brand, Agilitas Sports. Recently, the brand secured a significant investment of ₹100 crore and is now gearing up to produce sportswear. In addition to serving as the brand ambassador, Kohli will also be receiving a stake in the company. While the company’s website is already live, it is still a work in progress. Puma will face a significant loss with Kohli’s departure, as his association with the brand played a pivotal role in establishing it as one of the leading sports brands in India.
In recent news, Kohli had withdrawn from the first two Tests of the England series just three days before its commencement. KL Rahul replaced him in the first Test but unfortunately sustained an injury. Consequently, Rajat Patidar made his debut in the second Test as Rahul’s replacement. Speculations were rife about Kohli’s absence being due to his mother’s ill health, but these rumors were debunked by his brother. It was later revealed by AB de Villiers that Kohli’s wife, Anushka Sharma, was pregnant. Although it was meant to be kept under wraps, the news has now become public knowledge.
The upcoming Rajkot and Ranchi Tests are scheduled for February 15th and 23rd respectively. However, Kohli’s participation in the final Test in Dharamshala on March 7th remains uncertain, according to ESPNcricinfo. The series between India and England is currently tied at 1-1.