After Virat Kohli, KL Rahul now co-owns a sports team in Goa; check details

File photo of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul (PTI Photo)

Virat Kohli mostly known for his cricket glories is a true football fan. The former India skipper shares a great camaraderie with Sunil Chhetri as witnessed in the past interactions between the two. He also co-owns FC Goa, an Indian football club in the Indian Super League (ISL).

On Monday, KL Rahul took a step in a similar direction. The India batter, who enjoyed a great England tour in the last couple of months, has joined the ownership group of the Goa Guardians, tenth franchise of the Prime Volleyball League ahead of Season 4 which starts from October 2.

Now, for the first time as co-owner of a professional sports team, Rahul wants to give volleyball the recognition it deserves.

“This feels like a full circle moment for me. PVL is a turning point for the sport in India. The bigger picture is to give volleyball the spotlight and screen time so that more people can watch it and love this sport. I’m thrilled to join the Goa Guardians not just as a supporter, but as a co-owner. Volleyball has always been a sport I enjoyed, and I’m excited to lend my voice and play my part in growing the sport in our country” the cricketer was quoted as saying in the official press release.

Goa Guardians are making their debut in the country's most popular volleyball league and will compete alongside top franchises in a high-energy format designed for television and digital audiences. KL Rahul believes Goa’s vibrant sporting culture makes it the perfect base to inspire new talent.

Welcoming him, Raju Chekuri, Principal Owner, Goa Guardians & Founder, Netenrich, said: “We are delighted to have KL Rahul join our ownership group. His passion for volleyball and belief in its potential will help us build a franchise that inspires fans and empowers athletes. Volleyball is one of the most played sports in the world, and with the right platform, it can become India’s next Olympic success story.”

Raj Chekuri, Managing Director, Goa Guardians, added: “It means a lot to have KL along with us, and we couldn’t have a better person join us on this journey. He truly shares our ambition of making India a dominant force in global sport. His involvement will help raise volleyball’s profile and create opportunities for the next
generation of athletes nationwide.”

Joy Bhattacharjya, CEO, Prime Volleyball League said: “KL Rahul’s support adds immense value to what we are building toward; the dream of seeing India compete in volleyball at the Olympic Games. His presence will attract more fans and accelerate the growth of the sport in India.”

All the league matches will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network and streamed on PVL’s YouTube channel from October 2 to 26, 2025.