New Delhi: Major setback for Team India sponsorship Days before the start of the Asia Cup 2025, fantasy sports giant Dream11 has decided to withdraw as the lead sponsor of the Indian cricket team, sources told NDTV.
The development comes in the wake of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, recently passed in the Indian Parliament. The new law bans real-money gaming platforms, directly impacting companies such as Dream11.
Sponsorship deal in limbo
Neither the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) nor Dream11 has released an official statement regarding the sponsorship exit. However, insiders have indicated that the company is unwilling to continue its partnership under the new legal framework.
Dream11 had earlier signed multi-crore sponsorship deals with the BCCI, including title sponsorship of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and jersey sponsorship for Team India.
Impact of the new bill
The Online Gaming Bill, 2025, aims to curb betting and gambling through digital platforms. By classifying fantasy sports under real-money gaming, the legislation effectively bans operations of companies like Dream11, MPL, and My11Circle in India.
Industry experts say this move could have a significant impact on the revenues of sports organisations that have relied heavily on fantasy gaming companies for sponsorship in recent years.
BCCI faces sponsorship challenge
With Dream11’s reported withdrawal, the BCCI may be forced to look for a replacement sponsor at short notice, just ahead of a marquee tournament like the Asia Cup.
Cricket sponsorship deals in India often run into hundreds of crores, making it one of the most lucrative markets for brands. However, with fantasy gaming firms now out of the picture, traditional consumer brands may step in to fill the void.
Conclusion
Dream11’s decision to back out marks a significant shift in the cricket sponsorship landscape in India. As the Asia Cup approaches, all eyes will be on the BCCI to announce a new partner, while the larger sports ecosystem braces for the after-effects of the new online gaming legislation.