The Indian government to ban on Dream11 has become a reality. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, is now in effect. It bans all real-money online games, including fantasy sports platforms like Dream11, and blocks their sponsorship and promotion. As a result, India’s fantasy cricket market, which millions of fans follow daily, has entered a new phase.
New law changes landscape
The new Act makes it a criminal offence to operate or promote real-money gaming. Offenders face fines and up to three years in jail. In addition, lawmakers introduced the law to protect users from gambling risks and financial losses. It also prohibits sponsorships and advertisements connected to banned gaming platforms.
Because of this, Dream11’s ₹358 crore jersey sponsorship with Team India is no longer secure. Therefore, a deal that once promoted fantasy cricket at the highest level of Indian sport may soon come to an end.
Dream11 reacts to the ban
Dream11 moved quickly after the law came into effect. The platform suspended all money-based contests and shifted entirely to a free-to-play model. Fans can still create fantasy teams and enjoy the game, but they cannot use or win real money.
Meanwhile, Dream Sports, the parent company, is investing more in other ventures. FanCode delivers sports content, DreamSetGo offers travel experiences around sports events, and Dream Game Studios develops games. Together, these businesses show how the company plans to survive beyond fantasy sports betting.
Impact on cricket sponsorship
The ban left Indian cricket facing a sponsorship gap. Dream11 has already begun discussions with the BCCI to exit its jersey sponsorship contract. While the agreement is binding, a clause allows withdrawal if legal restrictions make operations impossible.
However, this situation places the BCCI under heavy pressure. The Asia Cup starts on September 9, and the Indian team may play without a primary jersey sponsor if a replacement is not finalised in time. Consequently, fans could soon see a new brand logo on the Indian jersey.
What fans need to know
The ban has already changed the fantasy cricket experience for millions of users.
- Paid contests no longer exist. Only free-to-play formats remain.
- Real money winnings have ended.
- Fans still enjoy team-building and competition, but without financial rewards.
Moreover, the fantasy sports industry now needs to innovate. Companies may introduce skill-based formats without cash prizes. Alternatively, they may shift toward casual games or seek opportunities in markets outside India.
How the Government acted
The government brought this law to address addiction and rising debts linked to online gaming. Previously, multiple reports showed how players lost significant money on fantasy contests. Therefore, lawmakers responded by banning real-money formats to protect vulnerable users, especially young audiences.
Supporters believe the ban promotes safe gaming and reduces gambling risks. On the other hand, critics argue that it limits personal freedom and harms an industry that created jobs, investment, and global recognition. In fact, several gaming companies are already considering legal options to challenge the law.
Bottom line
The Indian government to ban on Dream11 has reshaped the online gaming industry. Fantasy cricket fans now enter a new era where passion for the game continues without money at stake. Ultimately, while the platform has changed, cricket itself remains a unifying force for millions across India.
