India Faces Sponsorship Dilemma Ahead of Asia Cup 2025
Dream11 Withdraws Sponsorship
With just over two weeks remaining until the Asia Cup kicks off in the UAE, Team India is grappling with an unexpected sponsorship issue. The fantasy sports platform Dream11 has reportedly decided to withdraw as the primary jersey sponsor for the national team following the passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, which bans fantasy sports and online betting platforms.
BCCI to Seek New Sponsors
According to reports, Dream11 has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that it will not continue its sponsorship agreement. Although no official statements have been released yet, sources suggest that the BCCI plans to invite new bids for the sponsorship role ahead of the upcoming tournament.
Potential for No Jersey Sponsor
This development comes at a critical time, as India is set to compete in the Asia Cup in just two weeks. If a new sponsor is not secured promptly, the Indian team may have to participate in the tournament without a primary jersey sponsor. Reports indicate that new jerseys featuring Dream11 branding have already been produced, but those kits may never see the field.
A History of Sponsorship Issues
Dream11, which signed a three-year deal worth ₹358 crore in July 2023, joins a growing list of Indian jersey sponsors that have ended their partnerships due to financial or legal challenges. Previous sponsors include Sahara (2001–2013), which faced regulatory disputes, Star India (2014–2017), which was scrutinized by the Competition Commission of India, and Oppo (2017–2020), which withdrew due to financial issues. Byju's (2020–2023) also concluded their partnership amid legal disputes over unpaid dues.
Upcoming Matches for Team India
Despite these off-field challenges, the focus will soon shift back to cricket. Suryakumar Yadav's squad will begin their Asia Cup journey on September 10 against the UAE, followed by a highly anticipated match against Pakistan on September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium. They will conclude the group stage with a game against Oman on September 19.