Dream11 Walks Out Before a Big Tournament
Just weeks before the Asia Cup 2025, India is likely to be without a lead jersey sponsor. Dream11 is moving to exit its deal, leaving the BCCI scrambling for a replacement.
Dream11, the fantasy sports platform, is already in talks with the board to end its sponsorship. Jerseys were reportedly already printed with the Dream11 logo, but with the exit on the cards, those are now unusable
If no new deal is signed in time, India may walk out for the Asia Cup without a front-of-jersey sponsor — a rare sight for one of the most commercially powerful teams in world cricket.
Why Did Dream11 Exit?
The exit isn’t about cricket. It’s about a new law.
The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, has received Presidential assent and will come into force on a date notified by the government.
Under this law, real-money gaming companies can no longer advertise or sponsor sports teams. Since Dream11 falls into that category, it had little choice but to back out.
Government’s Reasoning
The government argues that fantasy sports and other money-based games pose risks of gambling addiction and financial harm, especially among younger players.
BCCI’s Big Challenge
For the BCCI, this is now a race against time.
They need to lock in a new sponsor before the Asia Cup kicks off on September 9. Reports suggest they could approach big names from tech, auto, or FMCG — with Tata, Reliance, and Adani all seen as possible contenders.
But whether a deal can be signed quickly remains uncertain.
What If No Sponsor Is Found?
If BCCI fails to secure a new partner, India might play the Asia Cup without a sponsor logo on their shirts.
It wouldn’t be the first time in cricket history, but for Team India — a global commercial giant — it would be unusual.
Wider Impact on Gaming Companies
The law doesn’t just affect Dream11. Other platforms like MPL will also lose access to cricket sponsorships and advertising.
That means fewer gaming logos on kits, fewer ads during matches, and a forced rethink of how these companies reach their audiences.
Looking Ahead
While the timing is rough for the Asia Cup, it does open doors for other industries to step into cricket sponsorship.
India remains one of the most marketable teams in the world, and it’s only a matter of time before another big brand takes Dream11’s place.
Until then, the question hangs: who will replace Dream11 on India’s jersey?
Conclusion
Dream11’s exit shows how deeply cricket and business are tied together. Laws shift, markets change, and even Team India has to adjust.
For now, the spotlight moves back to the game — with or without a sponsor logo on the jersey.
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