The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced plans to invite bids for Team India’s jersey sponsorship rights, in the wake of regulatory changes affecting its current partner.
Why the Change Is Taking Shape
Team India was recently sponsored by Dream11 under a ₹358 crore deal spanning July 2023 to March 2026. However, the passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha now bans real-money gaming platforms once it becomes law. Consequently, Dream11—classified under this banned category—has already halted its real-money operations.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the board will await the bill’s presidential assent. Once the law is in effect, BCCI will assess whether sponsorships from online gaming firms remain permissible. Only if allowed will the Dream11 partnership continue; otherwise, the board will explore new options.
Potential Sponsors Lined Up
With the future of Dream11’s jersey presence in legal limbo, several sectors are seen as likely successors:
- Legacy Conglomerates such as Tata, Reliance, and Adani—already active in sponsorships—are frontrunners.
- Fintech & Investment Platforms like Zerodha, Angel One, or Groww could step in to tap the cricket-loving audience.
- Automobile & FMCG Brands—consider Mahindra, Toyota, or Pepsi—given their established links to sports marketing.
What This Means for Fans & Brands
- Team India may showcase a new sponsor jersey in upcoming tournaments like the Asia Cup and women’s home series.
- The new sponsor deal could shift brand dynamics and activate fresh revenue pipelines for both BCCI and the associated brand.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Why the Change? | Dream11 may be disqualified as sponsor due to real-money gaming ban. |
| BCCI’s Stance | Inviting new bids but awaiting presidential assent to finalize next steps. |
| Candidate Sponsors | Conglomerates, fintech platforms, automobile/FMCG brands. |
| Timeline | Likely disclosure before Asia Cup; new sponsors may debut soon. |
