BCCI rules prohibit bidders linked to gambling, betting, crypto, online gaming, alcohol, tobacco, or harmful brands; surrogate branding through another entity is also banned
Mumbai
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has started the process to find a new lead sponsor for the national cricket team, after ending its deal with Dream11. On Tuesday, the board released an Invitation for Expression of Interest (IEOI), outlining terms and conditions for interested companies.
Dream11’s sponsorship ended after the government passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. The fantasy sports company had earlier signed a three-year deal worth Rs 358 crore in July 2023, replacing Byju’s. With its exit, the BCCI is now searching for a fresh partner.
The IEOI can be purchased until September 12 for Rs 5 lakh plus taxes. The deadline to submit bids is September 16. Bidders must have an average turnover or net worth of at least Rs 300 crore over the past three years. Only companies meeting financial and ethical eligibility will be allowed to bid.
According to BCCI’s rules, bidders cannot be linked to gambling, betting, cryptocurrency, online money gaming, alcohol, tobacco, or any brand that may harm public morals. Surrogate branding, where a company bids indirectly through another entity, is also banned.
Brands in categories such as sportswear, banking, insurance, non-alcoholic beverages, and household appliances are already locked under existing sponsorships. BCCI added that it reserves the right to cancel or amend the bidding process at any stage without providing a reason.
