Here at Beyond the Machines, we have always encouraged you to think about creating a second source of income. In fact, the whole idea behind building this blog was to inspire you—just like cricketers who don’t rely only on the game but also build their own empires through smart choices and multiple income streams.
The roar of a stadium packed with 100,000 fans, the thrill of a last-ball six, the euphoria of a World Cup win—these are unforgettable moments in the world of cricket. But what happens when the stumps are packed away, and the final ball is bowled? For many of India’s cricket legends, the action doesn’t stop on the pitch. Instead, they are stepping into a different kind of arena—the world of business.
Today, Indian cricketers are not only sports icons but also successful entrepreneurs, investors, and brand builders. They are proving that their strategic minds work as brilliantly in boardrooms as they do on the field. From launching their own startups to investing in high-growth companies, these players are creating powerful second innings off the pitch.
In this article, we take a closer look at how India’s top cricketers are building business empires that rival their sporting achievements. Let’s explore their ventures, strategies, and the reasons behind this growing trend.
1. The Pioneers: Legends Leading the Way
The Master Blaster’s Business Innings: Sachin Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar, the name that defined Indian cricket for decades, has also become a smart businessman. His journey from endorsements to equity investments shows how cricketers are thinking long-term.
- Smartron – An Indian tech company focusing on IoT and smart devices.
- Spinny – A popular used car marketplace.
- Azad Engineering – A pre-IPO investment in aerospace and defence manufacturing.
- Musafir – A travel-tech platform.
- Sachin’s Restaurant Chain – His early attempt in hospitality.
Sachin’s portfolio is a mix of technology, manufacturing, and consumer services. It reflects his belief in innovation and future-focused industries.
King Kohli’s Commercial Dominion: Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, known for his aggression on the field, carries the same passion into business. Unlike many who only endorse brands, Kohli creates them.
- One8 – A lifestyle brand in collaboration with Puma, covering footwear, apparel, and One8 Commune (a pub chain).
- Wrogn – A youth-centric fashion brand.
- StepSetGo – A fitness and wellness app.
- Blue Tribe – A plant-based meat company, reflecting his focus on sustainability.
- Mabel – A luxury home furnishing venture with Anushka Sharma.
Kohli is not just an investor but also deeply involved in branding and strategy. He is building an empire that connects with young India.
Captain Cool’s Calculated Investments: MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni’s calm and composed nature reflects in his business moves. He invests in practical, scalable, and widely relatable ventures.
- Khatabook – A digital ledger app for small merchants.
- Cars24 – A used car marketplace.
- DREAM11 – Early investor and ambassador for India’s top fantasy sports platform.
- Ranchi Rays – Co-owner of a hockey team.
- Seven – His own fitness and lifestyle brand.
Dhoni focuses on businesses that have mass appeal and solve real-world problems.
2. The Strategic Investors: From Players to Venture Capitalists
Yuvraj Singh’s YouWeCan – A Legacy Beyond Cricket
Yuvraj Singh’s battle with cancer transformed his vision. His venture capital fund, YouWeCan Ventures, focuses on healthcare, lifestyle, and impactful businesses.
- Healthians – A healthcare testing platform.
- Vyomo – An on-demand beauty services startup.
- BlackWhite Orange – A brand licensing and marketing company.
Yuvraj’s approach is emotional yet sharp, combining personal passion with business sense.
Harbhajan Singh: The Spinner with a Sharp Eye for Business
Harbhajan Singh has diversified his investments across industries.
- Pocket Aces – A digital entertainment platform (FilterCopy, Gobble).
- Oaktree Capital – Real estate investments.
- Harbhajan Singh Institutes – His own education and training venture.
Harbhajan looks for ideas that can scale and stand out in competitive industries.
3. The New Guard: Active Players with Entrepreneurial Spirit
Rohit Sharma’s Smart Portfolio
The Hitman is also hitting big in business. His investments show a tilt towards tech and consumer-focused startups.
- Axle Sports Tech – A sports technology company.
- RAS – His own clothing line.
- Quickplay – A gamified community app.
- Bruise – A men’s grooming brand.
Rohit’s bets are trendy and connect well with millennials and Gen Z.
Ravindra Jadeja: The All-Rounder in Business Too
Jadeja is not just an all-rounder on the pitch but also in business.
- Jaddu’s Field – A sports training academy.
- Anayay Sports – A venture into sports equipment and merchandise.
- One8 Commune – Investment in Virat Kohli’s hospitality brand.
Jadeja’s focus is on sports, lifestyle, and youth engagement.
The Young Guns: Pant, Bumrah, and Rahul
The new generation of cricketers is also taking small but meaningful steps into business.
- Rishabh Pant – Exploring tech startups and fitness brands.
- Jasprit Bumrah – Interested in wellness and sports technology.
- KL Rahul – Investing in fashion and lifestyle brands.
Though still early, this shows a clear shift—today’s players are thinking of the future much earlier in their careers.
Anil Kumble and Spektacom Technologies
Spektacom Technologies, founded by former India captain Anil Kumble, is a pioneering sports-tech startup based in Bengaluru. Established around 2017, the company is driven by the ambition to revolutionize fan engagement in sports using sensor-based analytics.
One of Spektacom’s flagship innovations is the Power Bat — an AI-powered sticker affixed to the shoulder of a cricket bat. This lightweight sensor, powered by Microsoft’s Azure Sphere, captures key data points like speed on impact, bat twist, shot quality (sweet-spot accuracy), and power—measured in a unit called “Speks.” The information is transmitted through a stump box to broadcasters, coaches, and fans in real time, enhancing the viewing experience and coaching insights.
Virender Sehwag’s Business Ventures
1. VS (VS by Sehwag) – Sportswear & Equipment
Sehwag launched his own sportswear and equipment brand, “VS”, under a joint venture with Stitched Textiles Pvt. Ltd., managed via Viru Retail Pvt. Ltd. The first exclusive store was opened in Ahmedabad.
2. Two Brothers Organic Farms (TBOF) – Agritech & Rural Impact
Sehwag invested in Two Brothers Organic Farms (TBOF), a Pune-based agritech startup founded by the Hange brothers.
3. Getepay – Fintech Investment
In mid-2024, Sehwag invested US$500,000 in Getepay, a Jaipur-based fintech startup.
4. T9L QUBE – Supporting Startup Founders
Sehwag made a strategic investment in T9L QUBE, a venture builder studio backed by founders Fahad Moti Khan and Gaurav Gaggar.
4. Why Are Cricketers Entering Startups?
The trend of cricketers turning into entrepreneurs and investors is not accidental. Here’s why:
- Capital: With high IPL contracts, match fees, and endorsements, they have huge funds to invest.
- Brand Value: A cricketer’s endorsement adds instant credibility and visibility to startups.
- Network: Their wide connections help startups scale faster.
- Passion: Many choose businesses linked to their personal interests—fitness, food, or sports.
This partnership is win-win: startups get money and trust, while cricketers secure their financial future.
5. The Bigger Picture: Beyond Cricket and Business
Cricketers are not only building wealth for themselves but also contributing to India’s economy. They create jobs, promote entrepreneurship, and support innovation.
Just like they inspire millions with their game, their business journeys also motivate young Indians to dream beyond jobs and think about startups or second income sources.
6. Conclusion: A New Playbook for Success
From Sachin Tendulkar’s tech bets to Virat Kohli’s fashion empire, from Dhoni’s practical investments to Yuvraj Singh’s impact-driven fund, Indian cricketers are showing us that success is not limited to the field. Their second innings in business is just as thrilling.
The next time you watch a match, remember: beyond the sixes and wickets, these athletes are also scoring big in boardrooms. They are not just players; they are entrepreneurs, investors, and visionaries.
