- Mar 4, 2024
- Jun 12, 2023
The conclusion of the 2023 World Cup marks the end of an era for Indian cricket as Virat Kohli and his longtime confidant, Cornerstone founder Bunty Sajdeh, have officially parted ways. The exact reason for the split remains undisclosed, but reliable sources indicate that Kohli is in the process of establishing his own company and is currently registering it.
This separation comes after more than a decade of a closely-knit professional relationship between Kohli and Bunty. However, whispers in the cricketing circles hint at Cornerstone allegedly prioritizing Kohli’s interests over other athletes associated with the agency. Notable cricketers like Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Ajinkya Rahane, Shubman Gill, and others reportedly felt that the company was excessively centred around Virat, neglecting the broader interests of its clientele.
While Cornerstone still manages star athletes like PV Sindhu, Sania Mirza, Umesh Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, and India U19 captain Yash Dhull, the separation from Virat Kohli marks the end of a unique partnership that played a pivotal role in shaping the cricketing landscape.
An industry source shared insights, stating, “Yes, Kohli and Bunty have parted ways after a very long and successful partnership. Over the years, there are a lot of other cricketers who’ve parted ways with Cornerstone. Rohit, KL Rahul, Ajinkya, Shubman, and others. But Virat and Cornerstone were inseparable. Now, that relationship is over too.”
The separation not only signifies a shift in Kohli’s career management but also brings an end to the dynamic duo’s camaraderie. Bunty Sajdeh, more than a manager, was known as Virat’s 2 am friend, standing by him at major cricket events. Their collaboration resulted in lucrative deals with top companies, including the notable Rs 100-crore agreement with Puma.
In the ever-evolving landscape of sports management, this development raises questions about the dynamics between athletes and their management teams, emphasizing the evolving nature of individual brand management in the world of sports.
See how fans have reacted:
Now some random news page be like: Rift between Kohli and Rohit
— OMG (@omgs_tweets) November 20, 2023
Great, good that he is getting rid of Snakes from his life❤️
— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) November 20, 2023
Virat Kohli's social media accounts had become almost inactive in last few months
— Shubman Gang (@ShubmanGang) November 20, 2023
New manager? pic.twitter.com/mkYVa5Wyv3
— Neta Ji (@AapGhumaKeLeL0) November 20, 2023
Sajdeh? Where have I heard that surname before?
— Febin (@febinvthomas) November 20, 2023
Woah. So many goodbyes. First Dravid, now Bunty. Feels like rebuilding Indian cricket will begin soon.
— Samarth Sharma (@samsharma260793) November 20, 2023
imagine the level of telecast on the tv channels of india had lifted the Cup .. now they don't even have a documentary on the winning team of the World Cup 2023
— ShahniVerse (@callshahnila) November 20, 2023
A symbol of Kohli retirement on the way
— Shayrix Z (@shayrixz) November 20, 2023