Winning Bizness Desk

Mumbai. Virat Kohli has added another key chapter to his post-cricket journey by investing Rs 40 crore in Bengaluru-based Agilitas Sports, a rising player in India’s sportswear manufacturing sector. The company is led by Abhishek Ganguly, former managing director of Puma India. With this strategic investment, Kohli not only enters a new business partnership but also secures an ownership stake in the firm. This marks a significant shift from his previous role as Puma’s brand ambassador, a partnership he chose not to renew earlier in 2025.

A shift in branding and ownership

Kohli’s involvement with Agilitas is not limited to financial backing. The cricketer is expected to play a hands-on role in the brand’s growth strategy. As part of the agreement, he will be issued 3.6 lakh Class 2 Compulsorily Convertible Preference Shares (CCPS), which are mandatorily convertible into equity shares, thus giving him a stake in the company’s future. With his brand value and deep understanding of sports, Kohli is likely to influence product innovation and market outreach.

Agilitas eyes end-to-end sports chain

Agilitas, founded with the vision to build a comprehensive sports ecosystem, has already made strides by acquiring Mochiko Shoes — a company known for manufacturing footwear for global brands like Adidas, Puma, and New Balance. The startup aims to control the entire supply and production line for sports goods, from design to distribution, in a bid to rival international players and strengthen India’s self-reliance in sports manufacturing.

Kohli’s growing off-field ventures

This move into Agilitas is another addition to Kohli’s growing portfolio of business ventures. Over the years, he has made strategic investments in brands like insurance firm Digit, fashion label Wrogn, and e-sports platform MPL. He also owns the One8 Commune chain of restaurants, which has expanded to multiple cities. These ventures show Kohli’s focus on building long-term value beyond his cricketing career.

Focusing on family before return to action

Kohli, who recently announced his retirement from Test cricket, is currently spending quality time with his family before returning to the field. The 36-year-old will next be seen representing India in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, starting on August 17. His recent off-field decisions suggest a clear roadmap towards building a diversified and sustainable post-retirement life.

7 Key Points Summary:

• Virat Kohli has invested Rs 40 crore in Agilitas Sports, a sports goods manufacturing startup.
• The company is led by ex-Puma India chief Abhishek Ganguly.
• Kohli will receive ownership stake via convertible preference shares.
• Agilitas aims to build an end-to-end supply chain in sportswear manufacturing.
• The firm has acquired Mochiko Shoes, a vendor for major global brands.
• Kohli has earlier invested in Digit, MPL, Wrogn, and owns One8 Commune.
• After retiring from Tests, Kohli will return to play ODIs against Bangladesh in August.