For the first time in a non-ICC event, Team India will step onto the field in the Asia Cup 2025 without a lead sponsor. The development follows Dream11’s sudden withdrawal from its multi-million-dollar deal with the BCCI after new government regulations hit its core business model.
Dream11 Pulls Out of Contract
Dream11 had signed a USD 44 million (Rs 358 crore) agreement in 2023 to sponsor the Indian cricket team until 2026. However, the company invoked an exit clause last month, citing the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, which bans real-money gaming in India.
This legislation crippled the platform’s operations, forcing it to prematurely end its association with the BCCI.
India to Play Without Sponsor Branding
With no lead sponsor in place, the jerseys of captain Suryakumar Yadav, vice-captain Shubman Gill, and teammates will only feature ‘India’ in a larger and more prominent font. Although ICC events traditionally disallow sponsor logos, this will be the first time India will play a continental event like the Asia Cup without branding.
BCCI Launches Fresh Bidding Process
In response, the BCCI moved quickly to invite new bids. On September 2, the board released an Invitation to Tender (ITT) document, open for purchase until September 12, with final bids due on September 16.
The strict eligibility rules exclude firms connected with alcohol, gambling, betting, cryptocurrency, online money gaming, tobacco, or content offensive to public morals, such as pornography.
Past Sponsorship Hiccups
This is not the first time BCCI has faced a mid-contract withdrawal. In 2019, OPPO exited its deal, paving the way for ed-tech firm Byju’s, which later handed over the sponsorship rights to Dream11.
Team India’s Asia Cup Schedule
India will depart for the UAE on September 4. Drawn in Group A with Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, the team’s fixtures are as follows:
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Sept 10: India vs UAE (Dubai)
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Sept 14: India vs Pakistan (Dubai)
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Sept 19: India vs Oman (Abu Dhabi)
Group B comprises Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and Sri Lanka. The top two from each group will progress to the Super Four stage, leading up to the final on September 28.
