In the first half of 2024, Indian cricket legends have emerged as dominant figures in the world of brand endorsements, overtaking even some of Bollywood’s biggest stars. According to recent data, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma are the top cricketers featured in numerous ad campaigns, demonstrating their immense marketability and fan base across the nation. These cricket icons have proven to be favorites not just on the field but also in the advertising world, representing various industries from technology to lifestyle.
MS Dhoni: The Unstoppable Brand Icon
MS Dhoni, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, continues to enjoy immense popularity even after his retirement from international cricket. Leading the list, Dhoni has endorsed over 42 brands, making him the most sought-after sports personality in India. His cool demeanor and reputation as “Captain Cool” resonate with brands aiming to showcase calm and reliability, making him an ideal ambassador for a variety of products.
Dhoni’s endorsements span multiple sectors. His long-standing association with Dream11 highlights his connection with fantasy sports, an industry that has seen exponential growth in India. Dhoni’s involvement in campaigns for Snickers, Oppo, and Bharat Matrimony has also made significant waves, and he remains the face of numerous top-tier brands across the nation.
Additionally, Dhoni’s affiliation with Wardwiz—a German IT security solutions company—underlines his ability to promote not just consumer goods but also technology-based brands, appealing to a tech-savvy demographic. His continued relevance post-retirement solidifies his place as one of the most marketable cricketers in India.
Virat Kohli: Consistency on and off the Field
Virat Kohli, India’s former captain and one of the most prominent figures in international cricket, follows closely behind Dhoni with a substantial number of endorsements. In the first half of 2024, Kohli has endorsed multiple brands, capitalizing on his reputation for fitness, consistency, and passion.
Kohli’s association with Puma, a leading sportswear brand, aligns with his fitness mantra. The collaboration has seen the cricketer promote athletic wear and shoes, positioning himself as a style and fitness icon for young Indians. His long-term partnership with MRF Tyres remains another major endorsement that has consistently boosted his off-field earnings.
Kohli’s influence extends beyond sports apparel and equipment. His collaborations with Vicks and Boost, both health-related brands, have further strengthened his image as a health-conscious athlete. The Indian skipper’s versatility in endorsing diverse brands has maintained his position as one of the highest-earning cricketers.
Rohit Sharma: Leading from the Front
Rohit Sharma, India’s current all-format captain, has steadily risen as a major brand ambassador in the cricketing world. In 2024, Rohit has endorsed multiple well-known brands, including Adidas and CEAT Tyres. His association with CEAT, in particular, highlights his long-standing contribution to the game and his influence off the field.
Known for his calm yet authoritative leadership, Rohit’s endorsement portfolio also includes brands in the financial sector, such as Cricket.com, a platform for fantasy cricket, where his leadership and batting excellence resonate with fans. Rohit’s ever-growing presence in advertising ensures his appeal among a diverse audience, from cricket lovers to business professionals.
Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul: Emerging Faces
Alongside these giants, rising stars like Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul are making their presence felt in the endorsement world. Iyer, known for his stylish batting and leadership for Delhi Capitals in the IPL, has partnered with fitness and lifestyle brands such as Myprotein, a sports nutrition brand, aiming to leverage his growing influence among young fitness enthusiasts.
KL Rahul, another key figure in Indian cricket, has become the face of multiple campaigns in 2024, including luxury watch brands and health products. His calm demeanor and fashion-forward image have helped him garner a strong fan base, making him a popular choice for endorsements in various sectors, particularly fashion and grooming.
Cricket’s Dominance in the Ad World
What sets Indian cricketers apart in the endorsement space is their ability to connect with people from all walks of life. While actors dominate the entertainment industry, cricketers have a universal appeal that transcends regional and age barriers. Their heroics on the field, combined with their relatable off-field personalities, make them ideal candidates for diverse brands ranging from sports equipment and health supplements to technology and consumer goods.
The trend of cricketers dominating brand endorsements in 2024 is set to continue, with more young talents and veteran stars alike finding lucrative opportunities in the advertising world. Brands are increasingly looking to associate with cricketing icons due to their wide reach and long-lasting impact on consumers.