Published on: Sep 17, 2025 4:31 pm IST|Updated on: Sep 17, 2025 4:33 pm IST
Ever since Dream11 got banned under the new online gaming bill law passed by the Government of India in August 2025, the Indian cricket team’s jersey sponsorship became a hot commodity. Now, in a major development that underscores the growing commercial appeal of Indian cricket, Apollo Tyres has been announced as the new lead sponsor of the Indian national cricket team. The deal, finalized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after a competitive bidding process, marks Apollo’s first foray into cricket sponsorship and will see its logo featured prominently on the jerseys of both the men’s and women’s teams across all formats.
The partnership spans two and a half years, concluding in March 2028, and is reportedly valued at ₹579 crore, making it one of the most lucrative kit sponsorship deals in Indian sports history. Apollo Tyres sees this collaboration as a strategic move to align with a sport that resonates deeply with millions across India. The home Test series against West Indies in October will be the first instance when Team India players will be spotted wearing the jersey with ‘Apollo Tyres’ as the prime sponsors.
Also Read: Dream11 to Exit as Team India’s Jersey Sponsor After Government Ban
Apollo Tyres’ entry into Indian cricket comes at a time when the sport is experiencing unprecedented global reach and brand value. According to BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla,
“This is more than a commercial agreement; it’s a partnership between two institutions that have earned the trust and respect of millions”.
The company’s branding will appear on the front and leading arm of Team India’s official jersey. Apollo’s global footprint, spanning over 100 countries, makes it an ideal partner for Indian cricket, which itself commands a massive international following.
Apollo Tyres’ marketing team has emphasized the synergy between cricket’s values, teamwork, resilience, and performance, and the brand’s own ethos. The sponsorship is expected to boost Apollo’s visibility, especially among younger demographics and sports enthusiasts, while reinforcing its position as a household name in India.
Apollo Tyres’ victory came after a fiercely competitive bidding war, with Canva and JK Cements emerging as serious challengers. Canva, the Australian design platform, placed a bold bid of ₹554.48 crore, reflecting its growing interest in India’s digital and cultural space. JK Cements followed closely with a ₹477 crore offer, signaling its intent to expand brand visibility through cricket. Despite their strong pitches, Apollo’s strategic alignment with sports performance and its robust media planning, advised by WPP Media, gave it the edge.
Apollo Tyres succeeds Dream11, whose sponsorship tenure was cut short due to regulatory changes surrounding online gaming. Over the years, several brands have partnered with Team India, each leaving a unique imprint. Here’s a quick look at the jersey sponsors through the decades:
Each sponsor brought its own flavor to Team India’s branding, from Sahara’s long-standing emotional connect to Byju’s tech-forward appeal. However, changing regulations, evolving marketing strategies, and rising costs have often led to premature exits, particularly for Dream11.
The Apollo Tyres deal is more than just a logo on a jersey; it’s a source of pride for both parties involved. It reflects the BCCI’s ability to attract top-tier brands and negotiate high-value partnerships that benefit the sport at every level. With Apollo’s backing, Team India enters a new era of commercial strength, brand synergy, and global visibility. For fans, this partnership adds a fresh visual identity to the team’s kit, while for Apollo, it’s a golden opportunity to “Go the Distance” with a sport that unites the nation. Right now, the Indian cricket team is playing the Asia Cup 2025 without a title sponsor after the sudden exit of Dream11.