The upcoming Asia Cup 2025 will see Team India compete without a title sponsor, a departure from the norm in modern cricket. This situation stems from the withdrawal of Dream11, the previous sponsor, due to the implications of the new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, which prohibits real-money gaming. Following Dream11’s departure, the BCCI has revised its sponsorship terms, increasing the cost of associating with the Indian team. The revised rates are Rs 3.5 crore per match for bilateral series and Rs 1.5 crore per game for multilateral tournaments. These adjustments reflect the premium value of sponsoring the Indian team. Moreover, the BCCI has implemented new rules, barring real-money gaming and cryptocurrency firms from bidding on sponsorships, thus narrowing the range of potential partners. Although the bidding process is ongoing, the Asia Cup, starting on September 9, precedes the September 16 deadline for sponsorship bids. Consequently, the Indian team will appear on the field with clean jerseys, presenting a unique and somewhat nostalgic view. This transition represents a significant shift in India’s cricket economy, driven by government regulations, higher costs, and evolving commercial priorities. The future of Team India’s sponsorship is likely to involve prominent sectors such as banking, telecom, FMCG, and tech. Ultimately, the players remain focused on their performance. The shift in sponsorship reflects the evolving commercial landscape of cricket.
Asia Cup 2025: Team India to Play Without a Jersey Sponsor as BCCI Adjusts Sponsorship Deals
