President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Online Gaming Promotion and Regulation Bill. Dream11, announced as the lead jersey sponsor for the Indian cricket team in July 2023 under a three-year agreement worth ₹358 crore, has decided to end its partnership with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following the passage of the Online Gaming Promotion and Regulation Bill, 2025, in both houses of Parliament and its approval by the President.
Online gaming has seen a rapid surge in popularity in India over the past few years. Various online platforms, particularly those associated with cricket, are generating businesses worth thousands of crores. Dream11, an online gaming company, has been the official sponsor of the Indian cricket team since 2023. The Online Gaming Promotion & Regulation Bill, 2025, passed by Parliament on August 21, 2025, is a significant step toward protecting citizens from the risks of online money-based games while promoting and regulating other forms of online gaming.
The law aims to curb addiction, financial ruin, and social distress caused by predatory gaming platforms that thrive on misleading promises of quick wealth. It reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and constructive digital economy while safeguarding families.
On August 22, 2025, the President approved the Online Gaming Promotion and Regulation Act, 2025, marking a significant legislative milestone in India’s digital governance framework. The Act seeks to balance fostering innovation in the online gaming sector with mitigating the harmful effects of online money gaming. It represents a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to regulating one of the fastest-growing segments of the digital economy.
According to an NDTV report, Dream11 is “not ready to continue its deal” with the BCCI. However, no official announcement has been made by either party yet. BCCI’s Honorary Secretary, Devajit Saikia, stated that the board has always complied with the country’s laws and will continue to do so. “If it is not permitted, we will not do anything. BCCI will adhere to every policy framed by the central government,” he said.
The report further suggests that the BCCI is likely to invite new bids for jersey sponsorship rights before the Asia Cup. If the Indian board fails to secure a deal before the tournament begins on September 9, India may participate in the Asia Cup without a lead jersey sponsor.