The Indian captain who made history on the field by scoring a double hundred in four back-to-back Test series, has repeated the same off-field. Virat Kohli became the first Indian sportsman to ink a Rs 110 crore endorsement deal with the sports apparel brand Puma, reported the Times of India. 

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With the signing of an eight-year deal, Kohli has joined the ranks of Usian Bolt, Theirry Henry, Oliver Giroud, Asafa Powell amongst others as a global ambassador for the brand. 

“It’s a privilege to be part of a great list of athletes that Puma has,” Kohli told TOI. “Not just today’s icons like Usain Bolt, but also the brand’s rich history with Pele, Maradona, Thierry Henry and others. Both Puma and I are committed to a long-term partnership. I am impressed by the way Puma has gained popularity and market leadership in India in a short period of time,” he added.

Kohli's endorsement deal with the German company involves a fixed payment and royalty depending on the brand's business performance. Bulk of the endorsement deal, estimated between Rs 12 and Rs 14 crore annually, has been signed on a fixed payout. 

While other legends like MS Dhoni and Sachin Tendulkar have been a part of the Rs 100 crore club, they have received this amount through multi-year contracts with various brands. However, the 28-year old captain has been the first to put his hand on such a big amount through a single brand. 

Kohli took to various social media platforms and posted a picture endorsing the brand. 

Jamaican sprinter and ambassador of the brand congratulated Kohli and said, “Great choice @imVkohli .Time to go to the next level #ForeverFaster”