If you’re a cricket fan, you’ve probably noticed Dream11 proudly displayed on the front of Team India’s jersey. But that familiar logo could soon disappear. With Parliament passing the Online Gaming Regulation and Promotion Bill 2025, real-money gaming platforms like Dream11 are staring at a possible nationwide ban.
And this doesn’t just impact gaming apps—it could change how India’s most iconic jersey looks.
What’s Happening with Dream11?
Dream11 has been a household name for Indian cricket lovers. Since 2023, the fantasy gaming giant has been the lead sponsor of Team India’s jerseys, striking a massive ₹358 crore deal with the BCCI. From men’s and women’s matches to the U-19 squads, the red-and-white Dream11 logo has been front and center.
But things took a sharp turn when Parliament cleared the Online Gaming Bill 2025, which prohibits real-money games and their advertisements. Dream11’s entire business model runs on fantasy contests involving real cash, meaning the brand will no longer be legally allowed to appear on Indian cricket kits once the law is fully enforced.
For fans, that means when India next takes the field—possibly during the Asia Cup 2025—the jersey could look very different.
Why Does This Matter So Much?
The Indian cricket jersey isn’t just clothing—it’s an identity. Every logo on it is worth crores of rupees, and it represents partnerships that fuel Indian cricket’s economy. Losing Dream11 as a sponsor has three big consequences:
- A Revenue Gap for BCCI
Dream11’s sponsorship brought in huge money, which supported Indian cricket at multiple levels. Without them, the BCCI suddenly faces a sponsorship vacuum, and finding a replacement quickly won’t be easy. - Possible No-Sponsor Jerseys
If no new brand steps in immediately, India could walk onto the field with a plain front jersey—something fans haven’t seen in years. That would look unusual, especially in high-profile matches. - Market Jitters for Other Brands
If Dream11, the biggest fantasy gaming name in India, is being forced out, what happens to other gaming sponsors? Companies like MPL and My11Circle may also face the axe. This could cause an overall shake-up in the sponsorship market.
How Big Is the Blow for Dream11?
To understand the impact, let’s look at numbers. Dream11 earned over ₹9,600 crore in revenue in FY24, most of it through real-money fantasy contests. With the bill in place, Dream11 has already announced it will shut down its real-money operations in India.
This means the brand loses its core business overnight. The cricket jersey logo, which once symbolized Dream11’s dominance, will likely vanish too.
What Does BCCI Plan Next?
The BCCI isn’t sitting idle. Sources suggest they are consulting with legal experts and considering potential replacement sponsors. Industries like fintech, consumer goods, or e-commerce could step in. Remember, brands pay top dollar for visibility on India’s cricket jersey—the most-watched sports kit in the country.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia recently said, “We will only do what’s allowed under Indian law. If the law says a sponsor cannot continue, we will respect that and move forward accordingly.”
This statement makes it clear—Dream11’s days as India’s jersey sponsor are numbered.
What Fans Can Expect
- Asia Cup 2025 with a New Look?
Fans might see India entering the Asia Cup without Dream11 on their jerseys. Either the front may stay blank temporarily, or a quick new sponsor could be rushed in. - Short-Term Confusion
Just like when Oppo’s deal ended and Byju’s replaced it, or when Sahara exited years ago, there will be a period of adjustment before a new partner becomes the face of Indian cricket. - Long-Term Change in Sponsorships
With real-money gaming companies out, other industries now have a golden chance to claim this prime space. We could see a banking giant, a global tech company, or even a homegrown start-up on the jersey soon.
In Short
| Aspect | Current Scenario | What’s Next? |
|---|---|---|
| Jersey Sponsor | Dream11 (₹358 crore deal) | Likely to be removed under new law |
| BCCI’s Position | Respect Indian law | Searching for new sponsor |
| Impact on Fans | Familiar logo may disappear | New design or blank jersey |
| Dream11’s Future | India’s No. 1 fantasy platform | Forced to shut real-money business |
This is more than just a sponsorship shake-up—it’s a shift in how sports, business, and law intersect in India. The iconic blue jersey might soon shed one of its most visible logos, reminding fans that cricket is not only played on the field but also shaped by boardroom decisions and government policies.
So, the next time you tune in to watch India bat or bowl, don’t be surprised if the jersey looks a little lighter. Change is coming, and the Dream11 logo may just be the first to go.
