Is BCCI Seeking New Bids to Replace Dream 11 as Lead Sponsor for the National Team?
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Synopsis
The BCCI has opened the bidding process to find a new lead sponsor for the Indian cricket team following the end of its partnership with Dream11. Interested entities must comply with strict eligibility and financial criteria, making this a competitive opportunity for potential sponsors.
Key Takeaways
- BCCI has invited bids to find a new lead sponsor.
- Deadline for IEOI document purchase is September 12.
- Eligibility criteria include financial requirements and integrity standards.
- Entities involved in gambling or cryptocurrencies are prohibited from bidding.
- Bidders must understand the implications of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025.
Mumbai, September 2 (NationPress) - The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially called for bids from interested parties aiming to acquire the rights for the national team's lead sponsorship on Tuesday.
The board has issued an Invitation for Expression of Interest (IEOI), detailing the specific terms and conditions relevant to the submission and assessment of bids.
The deadline for purchasing IEOI documents is September 12, while the final date for submitting bid documents is set for September 16.
In a recent statement to IANS, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the partnership with fantasy sports platform Dream11 has concluded following the passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025 in Parliament, prompting discussions on securing a new lead sponsor.
Dream11 had previously entered a three-year agreement valued at Rs 358 crore in July 2023, taking over from edtech firm Byju's as the primary sponsor of the Indian cricket team.
The BCCI announced that the IEOI will be available upon payment of a non-refundable fee of Rs 5 lakh plus any applicable Goods and Services Tax.
Interested bidders should email their payment details for the IEOI purchase to sponsorship@bcci.tv as outlined in ANNEXURE A. It has been clarified that the IEOI documents will only be shared after confirming the payment of the non-refundable fee.
To submit a bid, it is mandatory to have purchased the IEOI. However, only those meeting the eligibility criteria outlined in the IEOI will be allowed to bid. Simply purchasing the IEOI does not guarantee eligibility to bid, as stated in a release.
The BCCI reserves the right to modify or terminate the IEOI process at any stage without providing any justification.
Bidders must adhere to specific eligibility requirements associated with the IEOI.
Bids may only be submitted by: (i) the individual/entity that has purchased the IEOI after paying the fee; or (ii) any entity within the same group as the purchasing entity. The fee paid by bidders, whether successful or unsuccessful, will not be refunded or offset against any other financial obligation.
According to the financial eligibility criteria set by the BCCI, bidders must demonstrate an average turnover of at least Rs 300 crore over the past three years based on their last three audited financial statements, or possess an average net worth of Rs 300 crore as per the same financial reports.
To be considered a 'Fit and Proper Person,' bidders must not have been convicted of criminal offenses involving moral turpitude, economic crimes, or fraud; must not possess any conflicts of interest per BCCI regulations; must not have a record of imprisonment for two years or more; must not be categorized as a wilful defaulter by the Reserve Bank of India; and must demonstrate integrity and a good reputation.
As mandated by the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, any bidder engaged in online gaming, betting, or gambling services, or having investments in such services, whether in India or globally, is ineligible to submit a bid.
Bidders and their associated companies must not be involved, directly or indirectly, in crypto trading, exchanges, or similar businesses.
Submissions through surrogate brands are strictly prohibited. This refers to any attempts to submit a bid indirectly through another entity using different branding or identity.
Bidders involved in multiple categories, including any underblocked or prohibited categories, cannot submit bids for those specific categories.
The categories that are prohibited include: alcoholic products, betting or gambling services, cryptocurrencies, online gaming activities banned under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, tobacco, and other categories that may violate public morals, such as pornography.
Current BCCI sponsors in categories like athleisure, sportswear, banking, financial services, non-alcoholic beverages, safety locks, and insurance are classified under locked brand categories.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight that the BCCI's decision to seek new sponsorship reflects a significant shift in the landscape of sports funding in India. With the passing of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, the board is taking proactive steps to align with evolving regulations. This move not only emphasizes the BCCI's commitment to integrity but also opens doors for new partnerships that could reshape the future of cricket sponsorship in the country.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for submitting bids?
The deadline for submitting bids is set for September 16.
What is the non-refundable fee for the IEOI?
The non-refundable fee for the IEOI is Rs 5 lakh plus any applicable Goods and Services Tax.
Can entities engaged in gambling services bid?
No, bidders engaged in online gaming, betting, or gambling services are not permitted to submit bids.
What is the financial eligibility requirement?
Bidders must demonstrate an average turnover or net worth of at least Rs 300 crore over the last three years.
Can bids be submitted through surrogate brands?
No, bids cannot be submitted through surrogate brands or indirect methods.
