ITV

Tag: Rohit Sharma

  • All aboard the big win as Abhibus rolls out its Grand Winter Bus Sale

    All aboard the big win as Abhibus rolls out its Grand Winter Bus Sale

    MUMBAI: Pack your bags and your luck because AbhiBus just turned routine travel into a road trip to riches. The ixigo-owned online bus platform has flagged off The Grand Winter Bus Sale, its biggest travel bonanza of the year, giving passengers not just discounts but the chance to drive away with a Mahindra Scorpio, iPhones, PlayStations, and even gold coins.

    The nationwide sale, live from 3 November to 31 December 2025, promises up to 50 per cent off on bus tickets and a steady stream of daily, weekly, and monthly prizes. Whether you’re booking a quick weekend getaway or a cross-country ride, each ticket comes with the potential to turn your journey into a jackpot.

    The Grand Winter Bus Sale is AbhiBus’s way of turning India’s favourite travel mode into a festival on wheels. Travellers can claim discounts by using promo code Grandsale, while the code Grandwin unlocks the shot at prizes including:

    . 1 Mahindra Scorpio as the grand prize

    . 1 iPhone 17 Pro every month

    .  1 PlayStation 5 and gold coins every week

    . ixigo flight and hotel vouchers worth Rs 5,000 every day

    That’s not all. Every booking guarantees travel perks like 15 per cent off hotels and flights on Ixigo, Zomato Gold access, Lenskart memberships, and more ensuring that even if you don’t win the car, your next trip will still feel first class.

    “With the Grand Winter Bus Sale, we wanted to make travel irresistible,” said Abhibus COO Rohit Sharma. “Customers can save big and win bigger. It’s not just about discounts, it’s about joy, excitement, and rewards for every traveller. This is our way of thanking millions who’ve trusted us for safe, comfortable journeys all year long.”

    Since its founding, Abhibus has grown into one of India’s most trusted names in intercity travel, connecting millions of passengers across thousands of routes. Its integration with ixigo has further strengthened its technology stack, enabling seamless booking, real-time tracking, and affordability at scale.

    In an industry where discounts are routine, Abhibus is betting on delight. The Grand Winter Bus Sale is less about slashing fares and more about sparking smiles. For two months, every ticket booked on the Abhibus app or website doubles as a chance to win something bigger be it a dream gadget or an entire car.

    And with India’s festive spirit spilling into the new year, AbhiBus’s timing couldn’t be better. For once, missing a flight might just be the best thing that happens to you because the real action’s happening on the road.

    So, fasten your seatbelts and keep your fingers crossed. With The Grand Winter Bus Sale, the next stop might just be a win.
     

  • Royal Stag goes large with AI festive greetings

    Royal Stag goes large with AI festive greetings

    MUMBAI: AI, aye, captain! This festive season, Seagram’s Royal Stag packaged drinking water is taking celebrations to the next level with an AI twist. Its new campaign, Celebratelarge – Hum Hain Generation Large, Humaara Har Celebration Large, turns the art of wishing into a tech-powered experience, with none other than Rohit Sharma helping India “live it large.”

    Unveiled in Gurugram, the campaign reimagines how the country swaps festive greetings. Using regenerative AI and advanced voice synthesis, fans can now create personalised video messages featuring Rohit Sharma himself,  transforming a simple wish into a hyper-real moment of connection.

    Adding another layer of sparkle is a 3D Festive Map, an AR-driven visual playground that captures the vibrancy of India’s celebrations. Meanwhile, India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav steps in with curated festive tips spanning gifting, food, fashion and music, making every celebration feel a touch grander.

    The campaign is also teaming up with Gaana to amplify the festive mood through music. “Festivals in India are about culture, expression and togetherness, and music makes these moments even more special,” said ENIL CEO Yatish Mehrishi. “This collaboration reimagines celebrations through creativity and innovation, encouraging today’s generation to live large.”

    Consumers can craft their own personalised greeting with Rohit Sharma and even win ICC T20 World Cup tickets by visiting royalstagliveitlarge.com. True to its name, Royal Stag’s latest campaign doesn’t just celebrate festivals, it celebrates them large.

  • Lauritz Knudsen flips the switch with cricket stars for nonstop India

    Lauritz Knudsen flips the switch with cricket stars for nonstop India

    MUMBAI: When the lights stay on and the game never stops, you know someone’s powering the innings behind the scenes. Lauritz Knudsen Electrical and Automation, a leader in India’s electrical and automation space, has rolled out its latest campaign Powering a Non-Stop India with the star power of Mumbai Indians’ trio, captain Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav.

    As the Principal Partner of Mumbai Indians, the brand isn’t just about logo placement on jerseys. The campaign spotlights how Lauritz Knudsen keeps India moving from hospitals running 24/7 and factories working round the clock, to homes that never miss a beat. The film runs seamlessly through these everyday scenarios, reflecting the company’s promise of reliability and resilience.

    Backed by creative muscle from Saatchi & Saatchi India, the campaign goes beyond advertising bravado. “Empowering bold and future-ready operations is at the heart of what we do,” said Schneider Electric vice president of marketing for Greater India Rajat Abbi emphasising Lauritz Knudsen’s role in driving a relentless India forward. Saatchi’s Chief Creative Officer Rohit Malkani added, “When you have three cricketing giants and a brand that never stops, the film itself had to move nonstop.”

    With India’s love for cricket as its amplifier and a message rooted in everyday resilience, the campaign blends entertainment with utility. Live across multiple platforms, it plugs Lauritz Knudsen’s story straight into households, reminding viewers that while the stars may play on the field, it’s reliable power that keeps the country’s innings going.

    Would you like me to also suggest a crisper alternate headline option without the cricket pun, in case you want to emphasise the “non-stop India” theme more strongly?

  • Swiss army knife brand lands Unilever pro as marketing chief

    Swiss army knife brand lands Unilever pro as marketing chief

    MUMBAI: Victorinox India has recruited Avirup Mukhopadhyay as its head of marketing, hiring  the seasoned marketer from wellness brand True Elements where he spent over three years. The appointment signals the Swiss army knife maker’s intent to sharpen its marketing edge in the competitive Indian consumer market.

    Mukhopadhyay joins Victorinox this month after a stellar run at True Elements, where he rose from category lead to assistant vice-president of marketing. During his tenure at the Mumbai-based health food company, he orchestrated brand strategy across multiple geographies, managed profit-and-loss responsibilities, and crafted go-to-market strategies for both traditional and alternative channels.

    His most visible achievement at True Elements was the Black Pack Anthem campaign featuring cricket star Rohit Sharma, which positioned the brand around its “100 per cent real, nothing artificial” promise. The campaign exemplified his knack for marrying celebrity endorsements with authentic brand messaging.

    The 15-year marketing veteran brings impressive credentials from blue-chip companies. He spent nearly three years at Unilever, where he cut his teeth on the iconic Kissan brand, developing everything from penetration packs priced at Rs 15 to comprehensive brand-building strategies. His Unilever stint included roles spanning brand management, trade marketing for modern retail, and territory sales across Kolkata.

    Between his Unilever chapters, Mukhopadhyay had a brief but notable six-month tenure at Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, where he was tasked with building the Rebalanz energy drink brand across key Indian markets. The “27 per cent less sugar” positioning he developed demonstrated his ability to navigate the increasingly health-conscious consumer landscape.

    His career began in financial services at Bajaj Allianz before pivoting to FMCG, with early roles at HCL Infosystems. A summer internship at Unilever during his MBA studies proved fortuitous, eventually opening doors to his full-time role at the Anglo-Dutch giant.

    For Victorinox, known globally for its multi-tool expertise but still building brand awareness in India’s crowded lifestyle market, Mukhopadhyay’s track record of scaling brands across price points and channels could prove invaluable. His experience spans everything from mass-market detergents to premium wellness products—precisely the range needed to navigate India’s bifurcated consumer market.

    The appointment reflects a broader trend of heritage European brands investing heavily in Indian marketing talent as they seek to crack the subcontinent’s complex consumer preferences.

  • Mahesh stays on board with AbhiBus for another blockbuster journey

    Mahesh stays on board with AbhiBus for another blockbuster journey

     MUMBAI: When it comes to bus bookings, Mahesh Babu isn’t just riding shotgun, he’s driving trust. Abhibus, Ixigo’s bus ticketing arm, has renewed its nearly decade-long partnership with Tollywood icon Mahesh Babu, extending one of the longest-standing celebrity-brand collaborations in India’s mobility space. First onboarded in 2016, the superstar continues as the face of AbhiBus in 2025, a partnership built on reliability, relatability, and regional resonance.

    From quirky in-transit ads to heart-tugging tales of homecoming, the duo has delivered some memorable campaigns over the years. This summer, fans can look forward to a new campaign that rides on this legacy while showcasing Abhibus’s evolved customer offerings like the “Filter New Buses” feature and the “AbhiAssured” promise.

    “Mahesh Babu has been more than just a brand ambassador, he’s been a fellow traveller in our journey of growth,” said Abhibus COO, Rohit Sharma. “From 2016 to 2025, his presence has helped us build deeper connections across the South and beyond.”

    Mahesh Babu echoed this sentiment, saying, “My journey with Abhibus has always felt personal. It’s about making travel smoother and safer. Abhibus doesn’t just take you places, it makes sure you get there comfortably.”

    As Abhibus expands across new markets, Mahesh Babu remains its most familiar co-passenger, a constant in a changing travel landscape, reminding Indian commuters that the ride can be just as memorable as the destination.

  • India’s ‘60 overs of hell’ roar back on screen as Sony Sports cues up docuseries on epic England tour

    India’s ‘60 overs of hell’ roar back on screen as Sony Sports cues up docuseries on epic England tour

    MUMBAI: Sony Sports Network is serving cricket fans a piping hot platter of drama, nostalgia and chin music with Bharat Tum Chale Chalo – Kahani 2021-22 Ki, a gritty three-part docuseries that rewinds to one of India’s most unforgettable Test cricket campaigns — the 2021-22 tour of England. Premiering on Sunday, 15 June at 1pm across Sony Sports Ten 1, 3, 4, and 5 — and streaming on Sony LIV — the series pulls back the curtain on India’s high-octane cricketing crusade on British soil.

    Fresh from their famous Gabba heist Down Under, the Men in Blue marched into England with a searing pace battery and a score to settle. From Lord’s “60 overs of hell” to Rohit’s bat-does-the-talking moment and the leadership shake-up that had fans glued, this is cricketing cinema with sweat, swagger and plenty of sledging.

    The series ropes in a solid bench of voices who lived and breathed the campaign — from former India head coach Ravi Shastri and England’s Michael Vaughan, to bowling coach Bharat Arun, fielding wizard R. Sridhar, and Kohli and Rohit’s childhood coaches. With spicy anecdotes and rare behind-the-scenes footage, this is not just a docuseries — it’s a dressing-room pass.

    Episode guide:

    Episode 1: Pace is pace

    Virat Kohli’s long game — building a ruthless pace attack since 2014 — gets its due. Bumrah, Shami, Siraj and Shardul bowl fire and fury into Lord’s, scripting one of India’s grittiest away glories.

    Episode 2: Let the bat talk

    A redemption arc for the ages: Kohli v Anderson, Rahul’s zen mode, and Rohit’s evolution into a dependable Test opener — capped by that sweet, sweet overseas ton.

    Episode 3: Oh captain, my captain

    When the final Test got postponed, so did destiny. With Kohli stepping down and Bumrah stepping in, England entered the Bazball era. The finale dives into legacy, leadership, and all the ‘what-ifs’ still echoing at Old Trafford.

    Timed to perfection ahead of the upcoming India-England clash, this is Sony Sports Network reminding fans why red-ball cricket still packs the biggest punch.

  • AbhiBus joins Tamil Nadu Premier League 2025 as official bus booking partner

    AbhiBus joins Tamil Nadu Premier League 2025 as official bus booking partner

    MUMBAI: AbhiBus (ixigo’s bus business), has announced its association with the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) as the official bus booking partner for the 2025 season.

    The partnership features extensive AbhiBus branding across stadiums, deep integration on the league’s digital platforms, and a host of fan-focused initiatives aimed at enhancing the cricket experience. As the official travel partner, AbhiBus is not only supporting regional cricket but also revolutionising how fans travel, offering seamless, affordable, and convenient options so they can follow their favourite teams across Tamil Nadu and beyond with ease.

    Commenting on this, AbhiBus COO Rohit Sharma said, “We’re thrilled to partner with TNPL 2025 and be at the heart of Tamil Nadu’s cricketing celebrations. Presenting the Orange Cap to the tournament’s top run-scorer is not just a proud moment – it’s a reflection of our belief in rewarding excellence, both on and off the field. With AbhiBus, fans get more than just a ride, they get a hassle-free travel experience that keeps them close to the action, the teams they support, and the game they love.”

    TNPL spokesperson R. I Palani added, “We are excited to welcome AbhiBus into the TNPL family. This partnership adds value to the league by offering greater convenience to our fans. With AbhiBus on board, planning travel around matches becomes smoother, and their presence – from stadium LED displays to digital engagement – will further enrich the TNPL experience.”

  • Hit for Six Rohit Sharma bats again for TCL in year two of brand play

    Hit for Six Rohit Sharma bats again for TCL in year two of brand play

    MUMBAI: Rohit Sharma isn’t just mastering moments on the cricket pitch, he’s now doubling down on doing so in your living room too. The Indian skipper has returned for a second innings as brand ambassador for TCL India, extending a partnership that fuses cool-headed consistency with cutting-edge consumer tech.

    TCL, known for its growing footprint in the smart TV and home appliance sector, continues to lean into Indian sensibilities with this brand move. Rohit, who is exclusively managed by Rise Worldwide, fits snugly into the brand’s “Master the Moment” philosophy bringing a blend of precision, poise, and impact to the company’s message.

    “We are thrilled to have Rohit continue with us,” said TCL India general manager Philip Xia. “His leadership under pressure and reliable performance mirror the values we stand by at TCL innovation, dependability, and cultural resonance.”

    The feeling is mutual. “TCL’s drive to innovate resonates with my own approach to the game,” said Rohit Sharma, sounding as composed as ever. “Together, we want to remind people that technology, when used well, empowers you to live every moment to its fullest.”

    The extended association comes at a time when TCL is betting big on its AI-powered solutions, expanding its smart TV and appliance range across Indian markets. From product rollouts to emotion-led campaigns, Rohit’s face (and finesse) will front a host of initiatives aimed at turning tech into a lifestyle statement.

    As TCL plays the long game in India’s fast-growing consumer electronics arena, it’s clearly banking on cricketing charisma to keep it in pole position and Rohit Sharma, as always, is ready to deliver.
     

  • Test and furious India heads to England with grit glory and a new guard

    Test and furious India heads to England with grit glory and a new guard

    MUMBAI: It’s no longer just about technique and turf, it’s about taming old ghosts with new fire. Sony Sports Network is set to bring viewers the cricketing showdown of the year, the India tour of England 2025, a five-Test epic that kicks off June 20. Played on iconic English grounds like Lord’s, The Oval, and Old Trafford, the series carries weight not just on the scoreboard, but in the psyche of Indian cricket.

    What makes this tour doubly dramatic? It’s the first major Test series in a post-Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli era. With a fresh captain and a young, fearless squad at the helm, Team India is ready to challenge a century-long struggle India has only clinched 3 out of 19 Test series in England. This time, they arrive armed with swagger, skill, and a new spirit: ‘Naya India, Dhaakad India’.

    “The India tour of England will be a ‘test’ in the truest sense of the word… With ‘Naya India, Dhaakad India’, we are celebrating the courage and determination of this new generation… Sony Sports Network aims to rally the nation behind Team India as they embark on this crucial Test series,” said Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer for distribution & international business and head for sports business Rajesh Kaul.

    Adding his voice to the call is Cheteshwar Pujara, who noted, “With a young and dynamic squad, this tour represents a significant turning point for Indian cricket… I look forward to witnessing how this group rises to the occasion.”

    For Irfan Pathan, the series isn’t just about stats, it’s about seizing the stage: “Ground Tumhara, Jeet Hamari perfectly captures the fearless attitude… I am confident this team has the talent and determination to take on the toughest challenges.”

    To amplify the buzz, Sony Sports Network has launched ‘Ground Tumhara, Jeet Hamari’, a fiery, animated campaign packed with emotion and edge. One standout film features iconic captains Ajit Wadekar, Kapil Dev, and Rahul Dravid reflecting on their rare Test triumphs on English soil reminding fans just how elusive victory here has been.

    Another short, ‘Fury in Harmony – Bumrah’, taps into Jasprit Bumrah’s explosive spell from the 2020-21 series, reinforcing the visceral thrill of red-ball cricket. And in a not-yet-aired third film titled ‘Kasam Paida Karne Wale Ki’, set to the iconic 1984 Bollywood song, cricket legends Sunil Gavaskar and Irfan Pathan join forces with English stars like Mark Wood and Harry Brook to dramatise the rivalry and resistance India faces in England.

    With more than just points on the line, this tour is a statement of intent from a resurgent Indian side determined to rewrite Test history on England’s toughest pitches.

    Catch every ball, every twist, and every cheer Live starting 20 June 2025, only on Sony Sports Network. Because this time, the turf might be theirs but the win? That’s ours to take.

  • Mumbai’s cricket carnival returns with new owners and a Hitman’s touch

    Mumbai’s cricket carnival returns with new owners and a Hitman’s touch

    MUMBAI: Mumbai’s domestic T20 bandwagon is finally rolling again, with the city’s cricket association unveiling two deep-pocketed new franchise owners and a star-studded face for its revival season. Roadway Solutions India Infra Ltd has stumped up a whopping Rs 82 crore to secure the Sobo Mumbai Falcons, while Royal Edge Sports & Entertainment has shelled out Rs 57 crore to take control of the Mumbai South Central outfit.

    The much-anticipated third edition, returning after a six-year innings break, will be fronted by none other than Mumbai’s favourite son and India’s World Cup-winning captain Rohit Sharma. The “Hitman” was on hand Friday to unveil the tournament trophy and lend his considerable clout to proceedings.

    “Our domestic structure has always been the foundation of Indian cricket’s success,” said Sharma, who has gone from Mumbai’s maidans to global stardom. “Leagues like T20 Mumbai play a significant role in that journey. They serve as platforms that uncover new talent and provide young players with the exposure they need. Mumbai has a rich cricketing legacy, and we’ve seen some incredible players emerge from here I’m confident the third season will be a memorable experience—not just for the players, but for the fans as well.”

    The league, scheduled to bowl off on 26 May, appears to have struck a chord with cricket-mad Mumbaikars, attracting over 2,800 player registrations. It will maintain its eight-team format, with the two new ownership groups joining six established franchises: North Mumbai Panthers, Arcs Andheri, Triumph Knights Mumbai North East, Namo Bandra Blasters, Eagle Thane Strikers and Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs.

    “We are proud to announce Rohit Sharma as the face of the T20 Mumbai League,” gushed Ajinkya Naik, president of the Mumbai Cricket Association. “His remarkable achievements reflect the core values of Mumbai cricket—grit, determination, hard work, and ambition.”

    The tournament has previously served as a launching pad for several players who have since made their mark at higher levels, including Indian internationals Shivam Dube and Tushar Deshpande. Organisers are banking on this third edition to unearth the next generation of cricket stars from Mumbai’s talent-rich soil.

    After years spent watching from the pavilion, Mumbai’s cricket faithful can finally pad up for some local T20 fireworks next month—and with Rs 139 crore of fresh investment and Rohit Sharma’s star power behind it, the tournament looks set to send the ball flying into the stands.