World Bowling League Set to Launch with Kohli and Betts’ Support

NEW DELHI: The World Bowling League (WBL), a groundbreaking initiative backed by former Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli and Major League Baseball star Mookie Betts, is preparing for its inaugural season early next year.

According to Adi K. Mishra, the league’s founder and CEO, the first WBL season will showcase six franchise teams competing in visually stunning venues worldwide. The goal is to transform bowling into a dynamic and globally appealing sport.

Mishra stated during a virtual briefing from the U.S., “Bowling is a fantastic sport that hasn’t been properly structured for many years, leading many to view it as merely a recreational activity.”

“Our aim is to revolutionize this perception by establishing an exciting and contemporary league, featuring prominent team owners, exceptional locations, and state-of-the-art technology.”

The WBL will commence with six teams, each comprised of four athletes – two men and two women.

While the primary competitions will highlight elite professional bowlers, celebrities such as Kohli and Betts are anticipated to participate in preliminary events, enhancing the league’s overall appeal.

Bowling’s origins can be traced to ancient Egypt. It reached peak popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 70s, with bowling alleys prevalent in nearly every community.

Despite its decline as a major competitive sport, bowling still attracts approximately 200 million participants worldwide, including about 75 million in the U.S.

While past attempts to create a viable professional bowling circuit have been unsuccessful, Mishra asserts that the WBL’s global perspective distinguishes it.

Advanced preparations are underway to finalize franchise locations in countries like Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and India.

Mishra explained, “Our vision is distinct because we aspire to make bowling desirable and visually impressive.”

“Envision setting up just a pair of lanes in renowned locations such as Hudson Yards in New York, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, or impressive sites in Dubai and India. This is the kind of exceptional experience we intend to provide.”