When it comes to horse racing in India, the Poonawalla name isn’t just respected, it’s revered. For decades, their stud farms have bred champions and their colours have ruled the turf with an unmatched combination of pedigree, precision and passion.
But now, one of India’s most powerful dynasties seems ready to trade the racecourse for a cricket pitch, and that shift could do a world of good for Indian cricket.
From the thunder of hooves to the hum of high-tech laboratories, Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India, has shown that he can master vastly different worlds. If his next stop truly is the India Premier League (IPL), the move could inject cricket with the same vision, discipline and world-class infrastructure that turned the Serum Institute of India into a global powerhouse.
Reports suggest that Poonawalla is among the frontrunners to acquire Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) — one of the IPL’s most celebrated franchises — from its current owners, United Spirits. With Citi advising the $2-billion deal, this could mark one of the biggest transformations in Indian sports ownership.
Also read: Adar Poonawalla buys 50% stake in Dharma Productions
If the takeover happens, the benefits could go far beyond boardrooms. The Poonawalla legacy is built on excellence, transparency and innovation — values cricket desperately needs as it evolves into a global entertainment empire. Imagine the professional structure, scientific backing and athlete-first ecosystem that could emerge under such stewardship, turning franchises into institutions and players into better-prepared global ambassadors for the game.
As the man who helped vaccinate half the world, Poonawalla understands scale, precision and responsibility — the very traits that cricket needs to safeguard its future. His entry could bridge the gap between business sophistication and sporting emotion, between legacy and long-term vision.
So, whether it’s stallions or stadiums, vaccines or Virat’s men, the Poonawallas have always chased greatness!
By Joe Williams
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