The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is racing against time to find a new title sponsor for the Indian cricket team after fantasy sports giant Dream11 terminated its ₹358 crore deal, prompted by the government’s recent ban on real-money gaming. With the Asia Cup looming on September 9 in the UAE, the BCCI faces the prospect of fielding a team without a lead jersey sponsor, a rare setback for Indian cricket’s commercial powerhouse.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the split, stating, “Government regulations leave no scope for continuing with Dream11. We’re now seeking alternatives, but the process is ongoing.” The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, passed by Parliament, bans real-money gaming platforms, prohibiting their promotion or advertising. Violators face up to three years in jail or a ₹1 crore fine, forcing Dream11 to exit its 2023-2026 contract, valued at $44 million, which covered senior men’s, women’s, U-23, and U-19 teams.

A BCCI official, speaking anonymously, emphasized that Dream11 will face no penalties due to a contract clause allowing termination for regulatory changes. “It’s not their fault. The BCCI’s profits will take a short-term hit, but we’re planning anew,” the official said. The abrupt exit, reported first by PTI, leaves just 15 days to secure a replacement before India’s Asia Cup opener, a challenging timeline given the BCCI’s rigorous bidding process. “Inviting bids, scrutinizing them, and finalizing a winner takes time and must adhere to legal protocols,” the official added.

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The ban’s ripple effects threaten other sponsorships, with My11Circle, the IPL’s fantasy sports partner contributing ₹125 crore annually, also at risk. However, with the IPL set for mid-March 2026, the BCCI has more time to address that deal. Posts on X indicate interest from brands like Toyota and a fintech firm, but no official tender has begun. Dream11’s withdrawal, following predecessors like Byju’s and Sahara, who faced financial or legal woes, underscores the volatility of cricket sponsorships. As the BCCI navigates this crisis, the absence of a sponsor’s logo on Team India’s jerseys could mark a symbolic low in the lead-up to a marquee tournament.

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