Asia Cup 2025: Who Will Sponsor Indian Cricket Team After Dream11 Ban?

The Indian cricket team is set to enter the Asia Cup 2025 without a jersey sponsor, following the termination of its partnership with Dream11. Sources have confirmed to India Today that despite discussions within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about securing a new sponsor, time constraints may prevent the deal from being finalized before the tournament begins on September 9.

Dream11 Exit Leaves Sponsorship Void

The development comes after the enactment of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, which prohibits associations with online money gaming companies. As a result, Dream11 ended its association with the BCCI, abruptly halting a contract worth USD 44 million (Rs 358 crore) for the 2023–2026 cycle. Alongside Dream11, other gaming platforms like My11Circle have also been impacted, collectively contributing nearly Rs 1,000 crore to Indian cricket through team and IPL sponsorships.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the end of the deal, stating: “Our stand is very clear. With government regulations in place, the BCCI cannot continue its sponsorship relationship with Dream11 or any such other gaming company. Under the new restrictions, there is no scope, and we are facing a roadblock with Dream11."

Emergency Apex Council Meeting

An emergency Apex Council meeting, chaired by interim BCCI president Rajeev Shukla on August 28, focused on the sponsorship crisis. While members explored options for new partners, officials admitted that the tight timeline would make it difficult to finalize agreements before the Asia Cup. The BCCI, however, is planning to secure a long-term sponsorship deal that extends until the ODI World Cup in 2027.

No Sponsor for Asia Cup 2025?

If no deal is struck in time, the Indian team will take the field at the Asia Cup without any jersey sponsor, a rare sight in modern cricket, where sponsorships contribute significantly to revenue streams. The absence of a title sponsor may impact not only the financial aspects but also the brand visibility associated with Team India’s kit.

The ban on fantasy gaming advertisements has created a major setback for Indian cricket’s financial ecosystem. With Dream11 and My11Circle contributing heavily in the past, the BCCI now faces the challenge of attracting new sponsors from industries like technology, e-commerce, FMCG, or traditional conglomerates. Given India’s vast cricketing market, experts believe brands will be keen, but negotiations and compliance processes will take time.

For now, Indian fans may see their team play in sponsor-free jerseys at the Asia Cup 2025, marking an unusual chapter in cricket sponsorship history. The BCCI will aim to seal a new partnership well before the World Cup cycle kicks in, ensuring financial stability and brand presence for Team India.

Also Read: Afghanistan squad and schedule for Asia Cup 2025

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