The World Bowling League (WBL), backed by sports stars Mookie Betts and Virat Kohli, is set to launch its inaugural season in early 2026 with six franchises competing at high-profile venues. According to league chief Adi K Mishra, the WBL aims to transform bowling from a casual pastime into a dynamic, televised spectacle by combining celebrity involvement, unique locations, and technological advancements.
Mishra, founder and CEO of League Sports Co, believes bowling’s potential has been unrealized for decades. The WBL plans to field teams of four, comprising two male and two female professional bowlers. While the exact format remains under wraps, Mishra revealed that professional bowlers will compete in the core sport, while celebrities will participate in related events, with teams accumulating points throughout the season.
Despite bowling’s long history and continued popularity with an estimated 200 million participants annually, including 75 million in the US, the WBL acknowledges previous attempts to establish a successful professional circuit. Mishra differentiates the WBL through its global focus, with franchises in advanced stages of finalization in Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and India, along with a bold vision.
The WBL aims to elevate bowling’s image, placing lanes in iconic locations like Hudson Yards in New York and Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, to create a must-see event.
The league has already generated buzz with Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts purchasing the first franchise and cricketer Virat Kohli joining as a strategic investor. Negotiations for the remaining franchises are reportedly in the final stages. The WBL plans to simplify scoring, attract celebrity and corporate sponsors, and leverage ball-tracking and other technologies to produce compelling television and digital content.
Mishra believes that supplementary programming featuring celebrity bowlers like Betts and Kohli will make the WBL attractive to broadcasters. Numerous broadcasters are already interested, viewing the league’s design as suitable for their premium segments. The potential for additional celebrity involvement and related content creation further enhances its appeal.
Mishra and Kohli’s existing connection through their shared ownership of an E1 electric powerboat racing team led to the surprising discovery of Kohli’s lifelong passion for bowling. Mishra hopes to see Kohli participate on the lanes when his schedule allows.
