Indian cricket is now searching for a new main sponsor after Dream11 ended its $43.6 million deal. The decision came following India’s recent ban on online gambling, which includes fantasy sports platforms. Dream11 had become the lead sponsor of both the men’s and women’s national cricket teams in July 2023. The company’s logo appeared on player jerseys and several Indian Premier League teams. This sudden withdrawal leaves the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a hurry to find a replacement.
The Indian parliament recently passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill. The new law criminalizes offering and financing online gambling, with penalties of up to five years in prison. As a result, Dream11 informed the BCCI they could no longer continue sponsorship. This means Dream11 will not sponsor the Indian cricket teams in the upcoming Asia Cup, scheduled for September 9 in the UAE. The BCCI plans to launch a new sponsorship tender soon.
Dream11 is a major player in fantasy sports, also sponsoring leagues like the Caribbean Premier League and Australia’s Big Bash League. The new law affects card games, poker, and fantasy sports platforms, including popular Indian fantasy cricket apps. The government highlighted concerns over gambling’s negative impact on youth, including financial distress and addiction. Authorities also linked these platforms to fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing.
With limited time before the Asia Cup, the BCCI faces pressure to secure a new sponsor quickly. Officials told Sportstar that they are actively exploring options but acknowledged the challenge due to the tight timeline. This sponsorship loss comes at a sensitive time for Indian cricket, which relies heavily on commercial partnerships. The new restrictions could reshape how the sport engages with corporate sponsors in the future.
India’s online gambling ban has directly impacted cricket sponsorships, forcing major companies like Dream11 to pull out. The BCCI must adapt swiftly to this new reality and find fresh commercial partners. Fans and stakeholders will watch closely as Indian cricket navigates this challenging transition. The Asia Cup will be the first major tournament without Dream11’s sponsorship on the team jerseys.