The unexpected retirement of cricketing stalwart Virat Kohli has sent ripples through both the sporting world and the branding universe.

As fans come to terms with the absence of the icon on the field, marketers and strategists are posing a compelling question: Can Brand Kohli sustain its momentum post-retirement?

The Financial Express, one of India’s most respected financial dailies, turned to MDPH Director Mr. Ankit Agrawal for perspective. His views, shaped by first-hand brand experience with cricket legend and Zed Black’s brand ambassador MS Dhoni, carried weight.

According to our Director, Kohli’s journey mirrors those of giants like Dhoni and Sachin Tendulkar—sportsmen whose brand appeal transcends match results and scoreboards.

In his published remarks, Mr. Ankit Agrawal emphasized that Kohli’s brand is not merely an extension of his on-field excellence, but a cultivated identity that resonates with resilience, discipline, and global charisma.

Our Director believes Brand Kohli is poised to continue in the same glory. Like his predecessors, Kohli represents values that connect deeply with aspirational India and a growing diaspora of admirers.

The timing of Kohli’s retirement—especially when he appeared to have much more to give—caught many off guard. Yet, in this moment of uncertainty, our Director’s insights offer a new paradigm through which brand custodians can view the post-retirement trajectories of iconic athletes.

To understand the full scope of Mr. Ankit Agrawal’s thoughts on one of the most intriguing branding questions of the year, click the link below to read the complete article featured in The Financial Express.