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Introduction
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the world’s richest cricket board, has once again made headlines—this time for its urgent hunt for a new lead sponsor. Following the sudden termination of its partnership with Dream11, the Indian cricket team will enter the Asia Cup 2025 without a front-of-shirt sponsor. The development has raised eyebrows across the cricketing world, not only because of the timing but also because of the huge financial stakes involved.
This blog explores why the deal collapsed, what the sponsorship vacancy means for Team India, and how BCCI plans to secure a new commercial partner.
Why Did Dream11 Exit?
Dream11, a fantasy sports platform, had signed a lucrative sponsorship deal with BCCI in 2023, worth nearly ₹358 crore, set to run until 2026. However, the newly introduced Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 banned real-money gaming companies from sponsoring sports events.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that the termination was “abrupt but legally necessary”, forcing the board to cut ties immediately. This left Team India without a sponsor just days before the Asia Cup, creating a rare situation where jerseys will only display “INDIA” instead of a brand logo.
Sponsorship Void in Asia Cup 2025
For the first time in years, Team India is playing without a sponsor logo on the front of their jerseys. The Asia Cup, which began on September 9, 2025, is a massive tournament with millions of viewers globally.
While this situation highlights the urgency of finding a new sponsor, it also serves as a symbolic reminder that Indian cricket is bigger than any brand. However, from a financial perspective, the absence of a sponsor is costing BCCI valuable exposure and potential revenue.
BCCI Opens Bidding for New Sponsor
On September 2, 2025, BCCI officially invited bids for the National Team Lead Sponsor Rights. The process has clear deadlines:
The base price set by BCCI is:
With India expected to play 130–140 matches in the 2025–28 cycle, the BCCI is aiming to generate ₹450 crore+ through the new deal—almost 20% higher than the Dream11 contract.
Who Can and Cannot Bid?
BCCI has set strict eligibility rules for potential sponsors:
Disqualified Categories
Restricted Categories
Some sectors like banks, sportswear, beverages, and insurance are restricted due to conflicts with existing sponsors. However, companies already associated with BCCI in those categories may still be allowed to participate.
This move ensures that the next sponsor aligns with BCCI’s brand integrity and public sentiment.
Financial Stakes and Global Exposure
The Indian cricket team is one of the most valuable sporting brands worldwide. From World Cups to bilateral series, the visibility of a sponsor’s logo on the Indian jersey is unmatched in global sports.
With upcoming events such as the 2026 T20 World Cup and the 2027 ODI World Cup, the new sponsor will not only get exposure in India but also across global markets. BCCI is confident that major multinational brands will show interest, ensuring a financially stronger deal than ever before.
Conclusion
The BCCI’s hunt for a new sponsor is more than just a commercial exercise—it reflects the changing dynamics of sports sponsorship in India. Dream11’s exit highlights how legal frameworks and ethical boundaries are reshaping cricket’s commercial partnerships.
As bids close on September 16, 2025, fans, players, and stakeholders will eagerly await the announcement of the next big brand to grace Team India’s jersey. One thing is certain: when it comes to cricket sponsorship, no association in the world carries as much prestige and visibility as partnering with the Men in Blue.
With chances, training, and international aspirations in mind, here is the place where budding cricket players excel.
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