The partnership between Dream11 and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has hit a big roadblock. Dream11, one of India’s leading fantasy gaming platforms, has ended its deal as the official jersey sponsor of Team India. This change comes after the government passed a new law that bans real-money online gaming. The decision has left the BCCI searching for a new sponsor, just days before the Asia Cup 2025.
Why Did the Sponsorship End?
Dream11 was associated with Indian cricket for several years and had a strong presence on the team’s jerseys. The deal was worth hundreds of crores and brought steady revenue to the BCCI. But in 2025, the government introduced new rules under the Online Gaming Act, which prohibits fantasy platforms and other real-money gaming companies from advertising or sponsoring major sports events.
Because of this law, Dream11 had no option but to end its sponsorship contract. The BCCI also confirmed that it will not tie up with any similar companies in the future to stay compliant with government policies.
Impact on BCCI
This sudden exit is a major financial setback for the BCCI. The Dream11 contract was valued at around ₹358 crore, which was a huge amount of money for Indian cricket. Losing such a big sponsor means the board must quickly look for another company to fill the gap.
The timing has made things more difficult. The Asia Cup is just around the corner, and Team India currently does not have a jersey sponsor. This is unusual for a cricket board as big as the BCCI, which is known for attracting top global brands.
Search for a New Sponsor
The BCCI has already started the process of finding a new sponsor. It has invited bids from companies across different industries. Reports suggest that big brands from telecom, automobile, and fintech sectors may show interest in becoming the next jersey sponsor.
Some companies are already rumored to be in talks, but the final decision will take time. Since the Asia Cup is starting soon, the BCCI will be under pressure to announce a deal quickly.
Wider Impact on Sports Sponsorship
Dream11’s exit also raises bigger questions about the future of sports sponsorship in India. Fantasy sports and online gaming companies have been some of the biggest advertisers in cricket over the last few years. With the ban now in place, other sports leagues like the IPL and domestic tournaments may also face financial challenges.
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This situation might force cricket and other sports bodies to explore new categories of sponsors, such as technology, e-commerce, and traditional FMCG brands. It could also open the door for international companies that want to strengthen their presence in India.
What It Means for Fans
For cricket fans, the biggest change will be seeing Team India play without Dream11’s logo on their jerseys. While this may not affect the players’ performance on the field, it does highlight how closely cricket and business are connected in today’s world.
Fans may also notice a shift in advertisements during matches. Where fantasy gaming once dominated commercials, new categories of brands may now take over.
Conclusion
The end of the Dream11-BCCI sponsorship is a turning point for Indian cricket. It shows how government policies can directly impact sports partnerships and finances. While BCCI will likely find a new sponsor soon, the change marks the end of an era where fantasy sports companies played a big role in cricket sponsorship.
As India prepares for the Asia Cup, all eyes will be on which brand replaces Dream11 on Team India’s jersey. One thing is clear – this new law has changed the sponsorship game in Indian cricket.
