With the Asia Cup 2025 just weeks away, the Indian cricket team is facing a setback as it is without a title sponsor after Dream11 unexpectedly pulled out. The fantasy sports platform ended its sponsorship deal shortly after the Indian Parliament passed the ‘Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025,’ which bans real-money gaming operations across the country.
Dream11 had signed a RS 358 crore deal with the BCCI in 2023, which included INR 3 crore for each home game and INR 1 crore for each away match. The company decided to terminate the agreement due to the new regulatory changes. This leaves the BCCI in a hurry to find a new sponsor ahead of the high-profile tournament, set to begin on September 9 in the UAE.
Meanwhile, sources have revealed to NDTV that Toyota Motor Corporation and a fintech start-up have shown initial interest in taking on the lead sponsorship role. However, the BCCI has yet to begin the official tender process. Reports suggest that the board is looking for a deal that exceeds the value of its previous agreement with Dream11.
BCCI Struggles With Logistical
The sudden exit of Dream11 has also caused logistical challenges for the BCCI. Jerseys with the brand’s logo were already ready for the Asia Cup, but these will not be used during the tournament.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia addressed the issue, reaffirming the board’s commitment to adhering to the new regulations. “If it’s not allowed, we will not proceed with it. The BCCI will comply with all policies set by the central government,” he said on Friday.
If a new sponsorship agreement is not finalised in time, Team India could play the Asia Cup without a title sponsor on their jerseys, a situation unseen in the last thirty years.
In the meantime, India have unveiled its squad for the tournament, naming Suryakumar Yadav as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain. The matches will be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with the final scheduled for 28 September.