The familiar Dream11 logo may soon disappear from Team India jerseys, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has kicked off the search for a new title sponsor. Fantasy sports giant Dream11 is stepping away from its high-profile deal nearly a year before its term ends, forced out by sweeping changes under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. For cricket fans, this marks the end of a sponsorship era that saw fantasy sports become a household name through Indian cricket’s massive reach.
Dream11 and its sister brand My11Circle have together pumped nearly ₹1,000 crore into Indian cricket sponsorships, helping fuel the sport’s commercial juggernaut. The company had secured rights to Team India’s title sponsorship in a $44 million (₹358 crore) deal that was to run through 2026. But with the government cracking down on real-money gaming, Dream11 has been left with little choice but to bow out gracefully. The BCCI has confirmed that the company will not face penalties for the early exit, acknowledging that this is a compliance issue beyond Dream11’s control.
Now, the BCCI is opening its doors to new suitors, but with a rulebook that’s as strict as a third umpire review. In its Invitation to Express Interest (IEOI), the Board made it clear that companies involved in online money gaming, betting, or gambling—whether in India or anywhere else—are not welcome. Firms with stakes or investments in such businesses are also barred, as are those in industries considered “against public morals,” including alcohol, tobacco, and pornography.
The playing field narrows further with “blocked brand categories,” where the BCCI already has deals in place. With Adidas holding the sportswear rights, IDFC First Bank in banking, Campa Cola in beverages, and SBI Life in insurance, brands in these sectors won’t get a look-in. Even companies from sectors like consumer appliances—fans, mixers, and locks—are off-limits. To prevent loopholes, the BCCI has warned bidders against “surrogate branding,” or sneaky attempts to apply through proxy brands or alternate names.
Financial muscle is also a prerequisite. Any bidder must have either a minimum average turnover of ₹300 crore over the last three years or an average net worth of the same amount. The timeline is tight: interested companies have until September 12 to purchase the IEOI and must submit their bids by September 16. As always, the BCCI has reserved the right to change or cancel the process entirely.
Dream11’s departure underscores the impact of the government’s new gaming law, which bans companies from offering, promoting, or advertising real-money games. For years, fantasy sports sponsors had been a dominant presence on Indian cricket kits and broadcasts. Now, with that chapter closing, the hunt is on for fresh brands eager to associate with the sport’s unmatched popularity.
“This is a government rule and full compliance is required. In the current scenario, their business is impacted, and we fully understand their plight,” a senior BCCI official told PTI, confirming Dream11’s clean break.
For cricket lovers, this moment is a reminder of just how intertwined business, regulation, and sport have become. With Team India continuing to rule the pitch, the BCCI’s next sponsorship partner won’t just buy ad space on a jersey—they’ll inherit a prime spot in the hearts and screens of a billion fans.
