Virat Kohli strikes gold with Puma amidst IPL 2017 auction

India‘s skipper, Virat Kohli, has again managed to break the news despite the hullabaloo surrounding the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2017 auction. With all the 8 teams battling it out for top players in he bidding-war to bolster their chances in IPL 2017, Kohli’s magnanimous deal with Puma has taken center stage. The Indian cricket captain has struck an 8-year deal with sports lifestyle brand Puma worth of around INR 110 crores. Kohli is now set to join the likes of Jamaican sprinters Usain Bolt and Asafa Powell and footballers Thierry Henry and Oliver Giroud – among others – as a global ambassador for the brand. According to Economic Times, the 8-year deal – which could go on to cover the 28-year old’s remaining career with the national side. It is slated to involve a fixed payment and royalty depending on the brand’s business performance. Kohli will work with the German company to launch a signature line of sports lifestyle products with a special logo and brand identity. The bulk of the endorsement deal is estimated to be around INR 12 to 14 crores. “It’s a privilege to be part of a great list of athletes that Puma has. Not just today’s icons like Usain Bolt but also the brand’s rich history with Pele, Maradona, Thierry Henry and others,” Kohli was quoted as saying by Times of India (TOI). “Both Puma and I are committed to a long-term partnership. I am impressed by the way Puma has gained popularity and market leadership in India in a short period of time,” he added. Former Indian star players like Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni have been a part of such humongous 100-crore club through multi-year contract with sports and talent management agencies.