The Indian cricket team has started its Asia Cup 2025 preparations in Dubai, and fans have been treated to a rare sight, a sponsorless training kit. The absence of a company logo on the jersey marks the first time in years that the Men in Blue are training without a commercial partner displayed on their kit.
India’s previous sponsor, Dream11, withdrew from its sponsorship deal with the Indian Cricket Board following the enforcement of the Online Gaming Act 2025. The law effectively banned online money-based gaming platforms in the country, forcing Dream11 to exit with a year still left on its contract. Once regarded as one of India’s fastest-growing start-ups, the fantasy sports giant achieved a valuation of $8 billion by attracting millions of users who participated in paid fantasy leagues.
With Dream11 stepping away, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been unable to secure a fresh sponsor in time for the Asia Cup. However, the sponsorless jersey has unexpectedly won praise from fans, many of whom seem to prefer the clean, logo-free design over its previous versions.
Despite this warm reception, the plain look may not last long. On September 2, the BCCI officially floated a tender inviting companies to bid for lead sponsorship rights on the Indian team’s kit. The cricket board’s notice specifically laid out restrictions on the types of firms eligible to apply. Companies linked to online betting and fantasy gaming were barred, reflecting the government’s recent crackdown on the sector.
In addition, the BCCI made it clear that only companies with a minimum annual turnover of Rs 300 crore would be considered for the high-profile sponsorship. The move underscores the board’s focus on attracting long-term, financially stable partners who align with its image and the wider interests of Indian cricket.
As Suryakumar Yadav’s men prepare to open their Asia Cup campaign, fans and industry watchers alike will be keeping a close eye on who steps in as the next sponsor. Until then, the rare sponsorless jersey is making a nostalgic impression — a throwback to simpler times before cricket became one of the most heavily branded sports in India.
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