Tag: Virat Kohli

  • Mobile Premier League signs Virat Kohli as brand ambassador

    Mobile Premier League signs Virat Kohli as brand ambassador

    MUMBAI: One of the fastest growing eSports platforms in India, Mobile Premier League (MPL) has signed Indian skipper Virat Kohli as its brand ambassador, Kohli will be seen participating in a series of multi-channel marketing and promotional activities for the brand.

    Commenting on their newly formed partnership, Mobile Premier League CEO and co-founder Sai Srinivas Kiran said, “Virat is an inspiration to many Indians- young and old. His focus and dedication to developing his skills as a sportsperson and the never-say-die attitude he brings to everything that he does, has resonated well with fans around the world and with our brand. MPL believes that everyone can be a winner like Virat, and through our association with him, we hope to make mobile eSports more accessible to people across the country.”

    Kohli said, “eSports brings people together and breaks barriers of age and region, often empowering and encouraging those who play it. I am extremely happy to associate with an exciting young brand like MPL that is making mobile eSports so accessible to Indians across the country.”

  • ESP Properties: Sports and entertainment trends 2019

    ESP Properties: Sports and entertainment trends 2019

    MUMBAI: ESP Properties, GroupM’s sports and entertainment marketing agency announced its Top Sports and Entertainment Trends for 2019 on 26 February 2019.

    ESP Properties India business head Vinit Karnik said, “2019 will be a year for sports and entertainment. With Cricket on our minds for more than half the year, brands would want to revolve their game around the sport and the athletes. While e-sports is also becoming big, it has come a long way, and it is only expected to get bigger. With almost 20 per cent of share of spend expected in digital, ad spends in sports and entertainment marketing is expected to grow and evolve.”

    Cricket to dominate media and mind measures in 2019

    Cricket is in full swing in H1 2019 with Team India moving bases from Australia to New Zealand post the ODI series and following it up with hosting Australia in February to play ODI’s & T20’s. Then comes Vivo IPL and ICC Cricket World Cup, making Virat Kohli and his boys the talk of the town for the first six months in 2019 and literally monopolizing consumer eyeballs and advertising money. 2019 will break all records of cricket consumption on TV and Digital. With the ICC World Cup in England & Wales and considering our love for London, Indians will break all worldwide records of traveling overseas to watch sports and boost the sports tourism economy. With such a start to the year dominated by cricket, emerging leagues may have to reset themselves to make their presence felt and stay relevant.

    Embrace the athlete, embrace their stories

    One of the biggest marketing trends of this year is storytelling and we expect talent to unlock maximum value in 2019. Sporting landscape, led by cricket, will see the true value of talent beyond the top cricketers being unlocked. Audiences not only want to be taken on a journey, but they also want to connect with brands. Brands which can use Athlete and their storytelling power will garner massive interest from fans and advertisers owing to mass media exposure via TV and one-to-one engagement through social communities, rediscovering their true value. Federations and leagues will carefully evaluate talent contracts in terms of talent usage rights for self, sponsor activation and scope of the engagement. With social media becoming the primary engagement platform, the right balance between personal and public imagery will be most talked and debated in 2019. One can’t rule out a policy for talent on national duty for social media engagements and media appearances. This space will be super exciting in 2019, hence watch this space closely…

    Definition of ‘sellable’ content to be rejigged by newer monetization models

    Experimental content is facing challenges to release in large scale formats like cinemas. With newer digital platform and content taking center stage, storing telling will be redefined with a lot of experimentation and fresh feel. For example, content series like Lust Stories and Love, Per Square Foot has managed to harvest a completely new group of audience via digital only release. This trend is expected to continue with many more such content prices seeing a ray of hope to see the light of day.

    Broadcasting platforms to lean on data-driven insights and player access to engage and build fans

    While traditional broadcast passed on Gold Standards of Content from linear to non-linear platforms, best practices in Consumer Engagement will move from non-linear to linear platforms. For example, Watch ‘n’ Play on Hotstar during Vivo IPL 2018 has redefined Consumer Engagement norms for the traditional linear broadcaster(s) to follow. Moreover, increasing insistence on player access as a ‘Sponsorship Right’ in the sporting ecosystem is bound to blur lines of personal endorsements. With professional sporting ecosystem in India being over a decade old, advertisers have started looking at ‘Sponsorship’ as a one-stop solution to media exposure and talent access.

    Mobile Gaming to take center stage in the competitive CPU dominant Professional E-Sports World

    Globally, professional E-sport competitions are primarily held on a computer and consoles and mobiles take a backseat. In India, we’re witnessing a different trend where tournaments being held on the mobile, courtesy – PUBG on mobile with DAU of approx. 10mn+ which is more than any other game in the world across any platform is already giving gamers in India almost half the prize money of an E-Sports League India and this is only going to further grow. There will be so many more mobile E-Sport tournaments which will be seen in the coming future.

  • Star Sports unveils new campaign “Cricket Ka Asli King Kaun” for India’s tour of New Zealand

    Star Sports unveils new campaign “Cricket Ka Asli King Kaun” for India’s tour of New Zealand

    MUMBAI: Star Sports – India’s leading sports broadcaster has unveiled a new campaign for India’s tour of New Zealand. The five-match ODI and three T20 international matches starting January 23 will bring together two of crickets’ most celebrated captains– Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli.

    Highlighting this interesting clash, the film conceptualised by Taproot India applauds the class and consistency of New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, who may be a King for fans in New Zealand but for Indian fans, “Cricket ka ek hi king hai” – King Kohli. The Blackcaps, given their 7-3 Win/Loss record at home in ODI series since 2015/16 represent a strong challenge for any visiting team. Furthermore, the New Zealand batsmen are in exceptional form as evidenced by the performance of Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor & Martin Guptill, who amassed 1054 runs in three innings against Sri Lanka, in the recently concluded ODI series. The pace bowling duo of Trent Boult and Tim Southee are also a force to recon with, especially in-home conditions. However, given India’s recent strong away performance against South Africa and Australia in ODIs, fans can look forward to an extremely competitive series between the two teams.

    As a result of the partnership between Star Sports and New Zealand Cricket, fans in India would be able to view both the ODIs and T20I matches at ease. For the first time, ODIs in New Zealand will start at 7 am IST and the T20Is at 12.30 pm IST on the Star Sports Network.

    Kohli led Team India will clash against the Blackcaps in the first ODI on January 23 in Napier. With both teams working to finalise their core playing group in the run-up to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, this series plays an important role for both captains, especially for India, with only 10 ODI games to be played by the team before the ICC Cricket World Cup.

    Star Sports will telecast the series LIVE in 5 languages – English, Hindi, Kannada, Tamil and Telugu and on Star Sports 1/HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi/HD, Star Sports 1 Kannada, Star Sports 1 Tamil and Star Sports 1 Kannada.

    Cricket fans can enjoy the action in their preferred language with detailed analytical commentary including the usage of graphics and augmented reality (AR) on the Select Dugout which will be available on Star Sports Select 1/HD for all the T20Is.

  • Royal Challenge Sports Drink Bold League returns with season 2

    Royal Challenge Sports Drink Bold League returns with season 2

    MUMBAI: The second edition of Royal Challenge Sports Drink Bold League is back with its unique platform for cricket lovers that promises to be bigger, better and bolder. It has launched a series of short films featuring brand ambassador and RCB skipper Virat Kohli, who can be seen challenging cricketers across the nation to play against his team—“Ab Khel Ke Dikha”.

    The league, which made its debut in February this year, in 10 cities, is now expanding to host teams in over 30 cities and towns to battle it out and win a chance to be pitted against the Royal Challengers Bangalore team. A slew of social media stars like Sumeet Vyas, Nidhi Singh, and others from one of India’s leading digital platform TVF Play would be performing at each of the state finals. This will culminate with arena-style performances by musicians including Amit Trivedi, Badshah, Diljit Dosanjh, and Sreeram live in action.

    Talking about the campaign, Diageo India executive vice president and portfolio head—marketing Amarpreet Singh Anand said, “After a successful season 1, we’re thrilled to be back bolder than ever, spanning over 30 cities & towns. While season 1 was pegged on the war cry of cricketers across India challenging RCB, season 2 has Virat responding with a challenging ‘Ab Khel Ke Dikha!’ This season will continue to hold the original thought of bringing to life the brand’s premise of inspiring millennials to make bold moves in life, via a unique experiential platform”

  • Artimas Fashions debuts One8 innerwear look of Virat Kohli

    Artimas Fashions debuts One8 innerwear look of Virat Kohli

    MUMBAI: Artimas Fashions Private Limited, and licensee of One8 innerwear brand showcased the first look of its innerwear range today.

    One8 innerwear collection includes socks, innerwear and sleepwear. Staying true to its brand philosophy, One8’s subtle branding, look and feel emphasizes the simplicity and personal style of the cricketer par genius, while the dynamic colours of the products reflect Virat Kohli’s on-field persona.

    Elaborating on the first look of the One8 innerwear collection, Mr. Nischal Puri, Director, Artimas Fashions Pvt. Ltd., stated, “Dynamism and vitality forms the ethos of brand Virat Kohli. It deserves very sophisticated and strategic imagery. Over last several months we have been perfecting the look of One8 innerwear. We are happy with the end product which shall do justice to Virat as a brand and its commercial value. Through One8 we plan to shake up the stereotype that come along with the premium innerwear category through innovative product offerings.”

    Commenting on the look unveil of innerwear products from One8, Indian Cricket Team Captain, Virat Kohli, said, “I am extremely enthusiastic and optimistic about releasing the One8 innerwear campaign. We look forward to connect with the consumers through this new range of premium innerwear from One8. We have been dedicating our resources to perfect the look and feel of the products and are confident it will appeal to the consumers looking for a premium innerwear brand. We will soon be launching the entire range of products.”

    Speaking about the campaign, Mr. Udit Todi, Senior Vice President, Lux Industries Ltd. said, “One8 is set to fill the gap of a significant product offering and marketing innovation in the premium innerwear domain. The exciting look of the product range is in conjunction with the imagery and ethos of Virat as a personality.”

    Mr. Saket Todi, Senior Vice President, Lux Industries Ltd. added, “Through One8 innerwear range, we aim to fill the need based vacuum in the premium innerwear category. We do hope One8 will become the most preferred brand in the premium category representing the youth of India.”

    The One8 logo is also stunningly different, stylish, and bold. Each product from the One8 collection resembles Virat’s bold and outgoing personality while also sticking to his passion for an active lifestyle. The high-end innerwear, socks, and sleepwear that will be manufactured by Lux Industries will incorporate One8’s branding, look and feel. One8 is focused on providing the best quality for their products alongside the much necessary comfort that will instantly catch the eyes of the younger generations.

  • Virat Kohli reveals own fragrance brand One8

    Virat Kohli reveals own fragrance brand One8

    MUMBAI: Indian sports icon Virat Kohli has launched his brainchild One8 Fragrances giving his fans an insight into his 'hitherto hidden playful, candid, light-hearted, and jovial personality'. As revealed by the Brand, One8 Fragrances is a culmination of all the unfamiliar characteristics of Virat’s personality, a celebration of his philosophy and approach towards life – to be ‘Always on’.

    The marquee product offerings by One8 Fragrances include pocket sprays starting from as low as Rs 75, along with deodorants – including Aqua, Willow, Intense, Active, Fresh, and Pure – priced at an extremely affordable price point of R 225. The collection also has a range of Eau De Parfum such as Aqua, Intense, Fresh and Pure, which are priced at INR 1,495.

    The fragrances have been created by some of the most premium French Perfumeries. With this collection, One8 Fragrance aspires to provide the masses with access to luxury at an affordable price.

    Sharing an insight about the One8 brand, Virat Kohli said, “One8 is very close to my heart. Through the brand and its collections, I want to connect with my fans on a deeper level and give them an access to the candid and joyful side of my personality that has not been seen before. I want everyone to be closely involved in my journey, grow with me, and celebrate being fun yet focused, giving it one’s all and living harmoniously without compromising. The launch of One8 Fragrances is an extension of this brand proposition – and of my personality.”

  • Manyavar launches sequel to Viruskha ad

    Manyavar launches sequel to Viruskha ad

    MUMBAI: Manyavar released a new ad – “Naye Rishtey, Naye Vaade- Hamesha” – taking forward the story of Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma in the ad. It continues the playful romance of the pair at yet another yaar ki shaadi. Dressed in a mid-night blue double-breasted Indo-western outfit with an asymmetrical cut, Virat, complements Anushka, who looks mesmerising in an ivory coloured, hand embroidered lehenga.

    In the ad, Virushka leave no stone unturned to warn their soon to be married friends about the realities of marriage.

    Commenting on the campaign, Virat said, “I loved Manyavar’s unique collection for the season. There are lots of different hues and cuts in store this season. For myself, I chose a very stylish double breasted outfit with an asymmetrical cut. I think it made me look really suave.”

    Speaking about the ad, Anushka said “The youth will definitely resonate with it, especially young couples. Manyavar and Mohey have become brands that the youth have come to relate to. Their communication tends to be entertaining yet drives home a message which is extremely contemporary.”

    The director of the ad, Dhadak and Badrinath Ki Dulhaniya fame, Shashank Khaitan said, “I rarely take on ad film projects, but I was really excited at the prospect of working on Manyavar and Mohey. We wanted to continue the element of relatability of the ad, and with the right treatment of light-hearted banter the film beautifully focuses on love and happiness in spite of differences.”

    As someone rightly said, “A good dress can make you remember what is beautiful about life.” So if you have a wedding to attend this season, you know where to head for your wardrobe fix!

  • Virat Kohli Brand Ambassador Tissot India launches the TISSOT CHRONO XL CLASSIC VIRAT KOHLI 2018 special edition

    Virat Kohli Brand Ambassador Tissot India launches the TISSOT CHRONO XL CLASSIC VIRAT KOHLI 2018 special edition

    Mumbai, September 26, 2018: Tissot, the largest traditional Swiss watch brand based on volume, launched a Tissot Chrono XL Classic Virat Kohli Special Edition commemorating its association with its Brand Ambassador.
    Committed to provide the most innovative and best in class time- pieces, the Tissot Chrono XL Classic edited especially for Virat Kohli embodies a unique set of customizations that personify Tissot Ambassador. Known as the Tissot Chrono XL Classic Virat Kohli 2018, the watch features his navy blue logo engraved on its white silk-printed caseback and a navy blue leather strap enhances the sporty aesthetics of this special edition. The stopwatch num- ber 20 is changed by 18 and stands out in red, representing Virat Kohli’s number and the color of the swiss flag. This piece is limited to 3018 only: 18 relates to Virat Kohli’s Indian Team jersey number and the year 2018 is the year during which he will celebrate his 30th birthday. Therefore, the number of units produced is 3018.
    Mr. François Thiebaud, Tissot President SA, sent a congratulatory message to Virat from Le Locle, Switzerland. He said, “This is the first time we have launched a special edition for a cricketer and I feel extremely proud since it is for Virat, who has excelled in every genre of the sport and has aced innumerable records.”
    Speaking on the occasion, Virat Kohli expressed, “I’m thrilled to launch a personalized Tissot Chrono XL Classic edition. My three years of association with Tissot have been a wonderful journey. I was totally involved in the designing of this line and I hope you all like it as much as we do.” The watch will be in stores from October 2018 onwards.

  • Star raises concern with ACC over revenue regeneration for Asia Cup; BCCI responds

    Star raises concern with ACC over revenue regeneration for Asia Cup; BCCI responds

    MUMBAI: Star has expressed displeasure on Virat Kohli’s absence from the Asia Cup and had asked Asian Cricket Council (ACC) to get in touch with the BCCI, according to a report by Press Trust of India.

    Star, in an email to ACC game development manager Thusith Perera, stated how Kohli’s absence will impact the financial aspect of the coverage.

    “In our view, the announcement of the absence of one of world’s best batsmen from the Asia Cup, only 15 days before the commencement of the Asia Cup, is a severe dent to us (event broadcaster) and will severely impact our ability to monetise and generate revenue for the tournament,” the email stated.

    The broadcaster had asked ACC to get in touch with BCCI as it was clear that MRA (Media Rights Agreement) obligations required ACC to ensure best national teams are playing the tournament.

    The BCCI, however, in a sharp reply to ACC has made it clear that neither it nor broadcasters have any say in national team selection matters.

    However, BCCI made it clear that it is solely the parent body’s prerogative to choose the national team and no outside interference would be allowed.

    “Please note that selection of best available team for participation in a tournament is sole prerogative of BCCI,” BCCI CEO Rahul Johri replied to Perera.

    “It is not open for ACC or its broadcaster to insist on selection of any particular player and/or to question the expertise of any selection committee as to which is the best available team for particular tournament,” Johri further wrote. 

    Kohli, inarguably the biggest draw in world cricket, was rested after an 84-day tour of England where he emerged as top run-scorer with 593 runs in five Tests.

    Star India acquired the global media rights for Asia Cup from 2016 to 2023 in December 2015.

  • Virat Kohli becomes brand ambassador for Hero MotoCorp

    Virat Kohli becomes brand ambassador for Hero MotoCorp

    MUMBAI: Two-wheeler manufacturer Hero MotoCorp has announced cricket icon and captain of the Indian national cricket team Virat Kohli as its brand ambassador.

    Kohli will start his innings with Hero MotoCorp, riding on the new Xtreme 200R premium motorcycle. The campaign featuring Virat on the Xtreme 200R went live on Wednesday across TV, print, outdoor and digital platforms, to coincide with the start of the nationwide retails sales of the Xtreme 200R.

    The new premium motorcycle has been priced at Rs 89,900 (ex-showroom Delhi).

    Hero MotoCorp chairman MD and CEO Pawan Munjal says, “Hero MotoCorp is all about new-age, technologically superior and aesthetically pleasing products which are also fun to ride. Brand Hero stands for trust, excellence and resilience – the qualities that truly personifies the charisma of Virat as a global icon. He represents the youth of today, which ‘Fears Nothing’ and aims for the pinnacle – characteristics that have always defined Brand Hero. It is indeed my pleasure to welcome Virat onboard the global family of Hero MotoCorp and wish him a lot of success and fun in this new innings.”

    Virat epitomises the way of life and attitude of the new generation of youth across India and the world. Displaying leadership qualities from a young age, when he led the Indian team to win the U-19 Cricket World Cup in 2008, Virat has evolved over the past decade to emerge as a global youth icon that ‘Fears Nothing’. Virat is today the world’s top test and one day international (ODI) batsman in the ICC rankings.

    Kohli adds, “Millions of young boys and girls of my generation have grown up riding Hero motorcycles and scooters and it is, therefore, a unique and special feeling to associate with this brand. I have known Pawan Ji for long, and I thank him for giving me this opportunity to represent Hero MotoCorp at the global arena. Hero MotoCorp has been one of the largest corporate promoters of sports and sportspersons across various disciplines over the past two decades, and I consider this a huge privilege to be a part of the Hero family. I am eagerly looking forward to an exciting ride ahead.”

    Hero MotoCorp has been one of the largest corporate promoters of multiple sporting disciplines, including cricket, golf, football, field hockey and motorsports in India and across the world. The company has also promoted sports persons from various disciplines of sports, including cricket, football and golf.

    Hero MotoCorp’s well-documented association with cricket spans over two decades, in various capacities. Over the course of this long association, it was one of the global partners of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

    Several top Indian cricketers have earlier been associated with the company as brand ambassadors for many years. Hero MotoCorp has also been a partner of the Indian Premier League (IPL) – both at the central level as well as the team sponsor of the Delhi Daredevils and Mumbai Indians. The company is currently the title sponsor of the Hero Caribbean Premier League, (Hero CPL) – the biggest T20 tournament in the Caribbean.