• The Indian government recently introduced the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025.

  • The bill imposed a blanket ban on all online money games, including fantasy sports platforms like Dream11, My11Circle and MPL.

3 ways how the ban on real-money gaming apps like Dream11 could change cricket fandom in India
Dream11 Ban (Image Source: X)

The recent ban on online real-money games, following India’s new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025, marks a significant shift in the cricket and gaming landscape in the country. Dream11, a giant fantasy sport platform and India’s national cricket team’s key sponsor, halted its paid contests due to this government move banning real-money gaming. This ban will not only impact the booming fantasy sports industry but also alter how millions of cricket fans engage with the sport. From fan participation to sponsorship dynamics, the ripple effects are poised to reshape cricket fandom in profound ways.

Here are 3 ways a ban on online money games could change cricket fandom in India:

1. Decline in fan engagement and participation

Money games and similar fantasy platforms fueled an interactive cricket fandom, enabling fans to actively participate by creating fantasy teams and winning cash prizes. With the ban on real-money fantasy games, this direct, high-stakes engagement will diminish. Fans who thrived on the thrill of competing and winning may lose a major incentive to follow matches closely. This could reduce viewership and the overall excitement surrounding cricket tournaments like IPL. The substitution with subscription-based or non-monetary games may not fully compensate for the sense of involvement lost with prize incentives, potentially dampening fan enthusiasm and connection with the sport.

2. Shift in cricket content creation and consumption

Fantasy sports inspired a surge in cricket-related content, including analysis, predictions, tutorials, and fantasy expert tips. This content ecosystem thrived because fans actively sought ways to improve their teams. The ban on paid contests may reduce demand for such content, impacting content creators and reducing the diversity and depth of cricket discussions online. Fan communities may shift from strategy-driven participation to more passive consumption, potentially changing how fans connect with cricket narratives and discourse.

Also READ: 3 reasons why India’s new T20I vice-captain Shubman Gill will shine in Asia Cup 2025

3. Reduced grassroots and emerging sport support

Fantasy sports sponsors like Dream11 also funded grassroots leagues, emerging sports events, and talent development initiatives. The revenue flow from these platforms indirectly propelled cricket outreach programs and smaller cricket tournaments across states. The ban threatens this financial pipeline, potentially leaving local leagues and emerging cricket formats underfunded. This reduction in support may slow the growth of cricket’s grassroots fan base and emerging player pools, negatively impacting the sport’s future development and the diversity of cricket fandom across India’s regions.

Also READ: 3 reasons why the ban on betting apps like Dream11 is a correct move

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About the Author:
Varun Verma is a dedicated cricket enthusiast with a flair for storytelling and in-depth analysis. Combining a deep knowledge of the sport with a talent for engaging content creation, he brings the drama and thrill of the game to life for fans around the world. Drawing inspiration from the grit and passion of players like Ben Stokes, Varun aspires to one day experience the electrifying atmosphere of a Test match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. He can be reached at varun.verma@crickettimes.com and followed on LinkedIn and X.