BCCI’s finances stay robust despite Dream11 exit, ICC revenue dip

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has maintained a strong financial position despite losing key sponsorship revenue and receiving a lower share from the International Cricket Council (ICC). A note placed before the Apex Council revealed that the shortfall was offset through fresh commercial partnerships, including a standalone sponsorship agreement with Adidas, followed by another deal with Apollo Tyres.

"Notwithstanding the withdrawal of sponsors such as Dream11 and other entities affected by recent legislative changes, BCCI had successfully secured a new jersey sponsorship at a higher valuation for another two-and-a-half-year cycle," stated in the note, as published by Cricbuzz.

Dream11 exited its Rs 358 crore sponsorship arrangement in August after the Indian government enacted the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, which prohibited real-money gaming, the fantasy platform’s primary business model.

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Former treasurer and current joint secretary Prabhtej Singh Bhatia presented the proposed budget for the 2025–26 financial year along with the audited accounts for 2024–25 in September. The presentation projected total revenues of ₹8,963 crore for FY 2025–26.

While overall income estimates are lower than the previous year, largely due to a reduced payout from ICC events, the note highlighted a sharp rise in interest earnings. Estimated interest income for the year was placed at ₹1,500 crore, up from ₹1,368 crore, reflecting effective treasury operations and the Board’s strong financial health. The Apex Council note did not specify the exact reduction in ICC revenue, of which the BCCI is entitled to a 38.5 per cent share.

Members were also informed that the BCCI’s general fund grew significantly during FY 2024–25, rising from ₹7,988 crore to ₹11,346 crore. This resulted in a surplus of ₹3,358 crore, attributed to sound financial management and consistent revenue inflows.

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Bhatia added that the proposed budget projects a surplus of ₹6,728 crore and includes ₹500 crore earmarked for infrastructure subsidies, underscoring the Board’s ongoing emphasis on strengthening cricket facilities nationwide.

Additionally, provisions have been made for income tax liabilities of ₹3,320 crore, contingency reserves of ₹1,000 crore, and approximately ₹160 crore to cover pending legal cases.