BCCI Loses Dream11 as ₹358 Crore Jersey Sponsor Ahead of Asia Cup 2025

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is facing an unexpected sponsorship crisis just weeks before the Asia Cup 2025. Dream11, the fantasy sports platform and official team sponsor, has decided to exit its ₹358 crore jersey deal, citing the recently enacted Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which bans real-money gaming platforms in India.

Dream11’s Exit: A Major Shock

Dream11 had replaced Byju’s as the Indian cricket team’s lead sponsor in 2023, signing a three-year deal worth ₹358 crore. The agreement included ₹3 crore per home game and ₹1 crore per away game, making it one of the most high-profile sponsorships in Indian cricket.

However, with the new law prohibiting real-money online gaming, Dream11 informed BCCI CEO Hemang Amin that it would no longer be able to continue the sponsorship. The move has left the cricket board scrambling for alternatives just weeks before one of Asia’s most-watched tournaments.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the termination, emphasizing that the board will avoid engaging with companies involved in real-money gaming in the future. “Our focus remains on finding sponsors who align with our values and the integrity of Indian cricket,” he stated.

Implications for BCCI and Indian Cricket

The sudden loss of a major sponsor has significant implications. Financially, the exit creates a gap in the revenue stream, which could impact team operations, merchandising, and promotional campaigns. Beyond finances, the team now faces the challenge of ensuring its jersey branding is ready for the Asia Cup, which begins on September 9, 2025.

This situation highlights the fragile balance between commercial sponsorships and regulatory compliance. With Indian authorities cracking down on real-money gaming, companies operating in this space face heightened legal risks, making long-term deals with sports organizations more complex.

Potential New Sponsors

The sponsorship vacancy has attracted the attention of several major companies. Sources indicate that Toyota Motor Corporation and a leading fintech start-up are among the top contenders to replace Dream11. Other potential suitors could include technology firms and consumer brands looking to capitalize on cricket’s massive viewership in Asia.

Securing a replacement quickly is critical. BCCI officials are reportedly prioritizing companies that can commit substantial sponsorship amounts and ensure seamless branding for the team’s jerseys during the tournament.

The Bigger Picture

Dream11’s departure underscores the growing impact of regulatory changes on sports sponsorships in India. While fantasy sports platforms had previously enjoyed a booming market, stricter laws now force both companies and sports boards to rethink partnerships.

For Indian cricket, this incident serves as a reminder that sponsorship deals, no matter how lucrative, are not immune to legal and political shifts. The board’s response will be closely watched by sponsors, players, and fans alike.

Looking Ahead

As BCCI works to secure a new lead sponsor, the coming weeks will be critical. The Asia Cup is not just a tournament; it’s a major branding opportunity for sponsors, broadcasters, and the team itself.

Dream11’s exit may also prompt the board to explore more diversified and legally secure sponsorship options for future contracts. The resolution of this sponsorship gap will set an important precedent for how Indian cricket navigates commercial partnerships in an increasingly regulated environment.