Fantasy sports giant Dream11 has initiated discussions with the BCCI to withdraw from its ₹358-crore jersey sponsorship deal with the Indian cricket team, according to media reports. This abrupt decision arrives just weeks before the Asia Cup 2025 and follows the passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which bans real-money gaming platforms in India The Economic Times
Why This Matters
- Financial Hit to Cricket Marketing
Dream11 had signed the sponsorship deal in 2023, with a value of ₹358 crore—paying ₹3 crore per home match and ₹1 crore for each away match - Asia Cup Without a Title Sponsor?
With the Asia Cup set to begin on September 9, there’s uncertainty over whether a new sponsor can be secured in time. Jerseys with the Dream11 branding have already been printed but are now expected to be shelved - BCCI’s Legal and Regulatory Compliance
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia affirmed that the board will comply with Indian law: “If it’s not permissible, we’ll not do anything.”
Implications at a Glance
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Commercial | Loss of a high-value ₹358-crore sponsorship deal |
| Broadcasting & Branding | Asia Cup may proceed with unsponsored jerseys |
| Market Conditions | Regulatory crackdown on real-money gaming disrupts sponsorship norms |
| Cricket’s Image | Highlights clash between regulation and commercial gains |
Broader Context: Gaming Ban Ripples Across Cricket
This sponsorship exit encapsulates a broader trend: the government’s crackdown on real-money gaming is impacting not just the gaming industry but also sports sponsorship. Dream11’s withdrawal may prompt the BCCI to seek fresh sponsors—and fast—to preserve both commercial interests and brand visibility during Asia Cup.
Final Thought
Dream11’s withdrawal reflects the broader fallout of India’s new gaming regulations. It underscores how swiftly legal changes can disrupt even high-value sports partnerships. With Asia Cup fast approaching, cricket administrators face the twin challenges of securing new sponsors and navigating a transformed regulatory landscape.
