Indian National Cricket team captain Subhman Gill announced as Crunchyroll's newest ambassador

Fans of anime have heard of Crunchyroll streaming platforms because it is one of the most reliable sources of streaming anime series. They are known to offer a plethora of series in multiple languages, so it becomes accessible for fans without them worrying about a language barrier.

Moreover, this is one such streaming service that ensures that almost all the titles are part of simulcast, thus further ensuring that fans around the world have access to the latest episodes as soon as possible. This has been game-changing because the world of anime is no longer seen as a niche interest.

To prove it further on how even the platform is taking a step ahead in ensuring that fans feel connected, and to do that, it has recently been announced that Subhman Gill, one of the most renowned cricketers, is going to be the brand ambassador. This feels like a step ahead by the streaming platform to bridge the gap between audience and fans.

Why cricket and anime share the same DNA?

In an exclusive statement given by Subhman Gill, he stated:

"I’m new to the anime world, and as a sportsperson, I could instantly relate to how both the worlds converge on the lines of passion, discipline, and moments that decide everything. Anime fans and cricket fans are very much emotionally invested, analytical, and passionate about victories. So, just like it is on the field, in the anime world also, your instinct and conviction take the lead. This association with Crunchyroll is the start of newer possibilities to engage with fans and explore anime storytelling in a fun way."

A perspective like this is insightful because those who are not avid watchers of anime get an idea of how the genre has some substance to offer. For the longest time, anime was part of a joke where people who had not watched it called it a cartoon or something kids would watch.

But now we need to see firsthand how passionate people are towards his genre, and this kind of similar feeling also comes from sportsmen. In the end, it comes down to being respectful and having a space where fans can share their interests to the fullest.

These kinds of collaboration are meaningful because by aligning with a figure like Gill, Crunchyroll is positioning anime alongside interests that already hold strong cultural relevance in India, rather than presenting it as a separate or foreign medium. Anime is now easier than ever for Indian audiences to explore, regardless of whether they are long-time fans or complete newcomers.

Crunchyroll’s long-term vision for anime in India

Beyond individual statements, the partnership signals Crunchyroll’s long-term strategy in India. Right now, we are at a phase where anime is no longer restricting its viewers to one episode per week. There are series readily available to binge-watch. They have made many series which have been dubbed in local languages. This focus on regional languages has significantly lowered the entry barrier for new viewers.

Final thoughts

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In many ways, it seems like Crunchyroll and Shubman Gill collaborating will be focusing on holding on to the moment of anime becoming a cultural moment and expanding on that direction. India right now is one of the biggest consumers of anime, and the number has just been growing.

In many ways, this partnership also represents a shift in terms of this country coming into the radar of global entertainment.

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