BCCI vice president Rajiv Shukla has also asserted that the new jersey sponsor of the Indian cricket team will be decided in two to three weeks’ time. Team India is currently playing in the Asia Cup without a shirt sponsor following the abrupt termination of the board’s agreement with online gaming firm Dream11. This was done in response to the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, which in effect prohibited real-money gaming apps in India.
“The tender process has been announced and many bidders are there. We will let you know after it’s completed. I believe it’ll be completed in 15-20 days,” Shukla said at an event hosted by CREDAI on Saturday.
Dream11 Deal Ended Due to New Law
Dream11’s profitable deal with the BCCI, that was valued at Rs 358 crore per annum, ended prematurely due to the new law prohibiting real-money gaming. This removed the team’s jersey sponsor at the worst possible moment, with the Asia Cup having already started. Shukla made it clear that the new tender clearly excludes firms engaged in real-money gaming, betting, cryptocurrency, or liquor products from entering.
Inquired if there was one company that was leading the pack, he responded, “No, there is no name yet. There are a lot of bidders. We will tell you after it is finalised.”
Effect of GST Increase on IPL Ticket Prices
Shukla also talked about fears over the hike in the recent GST on IPL ticket prices, now in the 40% bracket, together with casinos and race clubs. With the new rates, a Rs 500 ticket now becomes Rs 700, and a Rs 2,000 ticket becomes Rs 2,800. Regular international and domestic matches still carry an 18% GST.
I am observing that a number of common people turn up to watch IPL. It will certainly have some effect, but I hope many fans will still turn up,” he added.
BCCI Tax Obligations and Women’s Cricket Development
Reacting to the criticism against BCCI tax exemptions, Shukla asserted, “BCCI contributes income tax like a corporate entity. We also pay GST. We have no exemption. We pay thousands of crores as taxes, and state associations also pay taxes. We never avail a single rupee grant from the government.
On women’s cricket, he further said, “A lot of efforts are being made. The only challenge is that the stadium should be full. We are promoting women, organising tournaments, and giving all facilities. The salary is at par. The only thing is that people should come and watch women’s games.”
