Recent news on the Online Gaming Bill 2025 will be vital for Dream11
In August 2025, the Indian Government passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, which effectively banned real-money online gaming. This includes popular fantasy sports platforms, such as Dream11, MY11 Circle, Vision 11, Mobile Premier League (MPL), Zupee, and many more.
The new law prohibits money-based games, including promotions, advertisements, and monetization models involving cash bets and jackpots.
Following this development, Dream11 announced the suspension of all paid contests and shifted completely to a free-to-play model. The company has assured users that the existing account balances remain safe and can be withdrawn anytime. At the same time, it has begun focusing on non-real money gaming (non-RMG) operations such as Dream Game Studios, DreamSetGo, and FanCode.
This decision has had a major impact on the industry, which was valued at nearly ₹23,000 crore.
What is Dream11, and who founded it?
Dream11 was founded in 2008 by Harsh Jain and Bhavit Sheth. It started as a fantasy sports program where users could create virtual teams using real-life players from cricket, football, kabaddi, and other sports.
Points were earned based on players’ actual match performances, and top scores won cash prizes. By 2024, Dream11 had become India’s leading fantasy sports platform, generating more than ₹9,600 crore in revenue, largely from paid contests.
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Benefits and Risks: Before and After the Shift
Before (Real-Money Gaming Era)
High-engagement fans are immersed in a detailed strategy, pitch conditions, analysis stats, and team combinations. Paid contests offered substantial cash rewards. Multiple sports and formats kept it exciting. Emphasised sports knowledge and research. Friendly rivalries, rankings, and social sharing.
Risks
Financial loss, addiction, no guaranteed returns – it's your own risk; losses could cause stress.
After (Free-to-Play Era)
Reduced Financial Risk: No real-money involvement eases stress.
Accessibility: Open to a wider audience, not limited by budget.
No Monetary Incentives: Players may miss the thrill and reward of cash competitions.
Business Impact: Disappointment over lost income and career disruption for contributors.
Dream11’s New Direction
Dream11 is now likely to lean into non-RMG ventures—FanCode, DreamSetGo, and Dream Game Studios—to continue engaging sports fans. These platforms focus on content, ticketing, and gaming experiences without monetary stakes.
India & the Asia Cup 2025: The Perfect Storm
Sponsorship Uncertain
Dream11 had become Team India’s jersey sponsor in mid-2023. With its exit due to the ban, India is expected to approach the Asia Cup 2025 without a lead sponsor unless a new one is found swiftly.
Asia Cup 2025 Overview
When & Where: Scheduled from September 9–28, 2025, in the UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi).
Format: T20 International; 8 teams divided into two groups, leading to Super Four and final stages.
Teams: India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, UAE, Hong Kong, and Oman.
Squads & Controversies
Bangladesh: Litton Das leads the 16-player squad; Nurul Hasan returns after three years, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz is notably absent.
India: Selection controversies erupted over Shreyas Iyer’s omission. Critics—including Brad Haddin—called the decision "extraordinary," especially given Iyer’s IPL leadership and performance.
India vs Pakistan: Despite diplomatic strains, the Sports Ministry cleared India’s participation in the match scheduled for September 14 in Dubai.
Political Backlash: The Samajwadi Party criticised the decision and called for a boycott, labelling it "nothing less than shameless".
Injury Worries: A key Indian player was reportedly hospitalised pre-tournament, raising concerns about team readiness.
What It Means for Fans & Platforms
Fan Engagement Shift: With fantasy contests off the table, fans must explore new ways to engage—like prediction games, content apps, or offline leagues.
Sponsorship and Branding: Dream11’s exit leaves a visible gap in cricketing sponsorship; new brands may soon emerge as alternatives.
Regulatory Ripple Effect: The law impacts not just gaming companies but the broader sports ecosystem—from advertising to revenue sharing and fan interaction.
Asia Cup Spotlight: The tournament unfolds amid major transitions—creating a backdrop of uncertainty and excitement in equal measure.
Final Thoughts
Dream11’s dramatic transition from a real-money fantasy platform to free-to-play underscores a pivotal shift in India’s digital gaming landscape. As the dust settles, the industry must reinvent itself. Meanwhile, the Asia Cup 2025 promises thrilling cricket, amplified by debates over selection, sponsorship, and national pride.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Dream 11 involves financial risks when played with real money, which is now restricted under Indian law. This site is not affiliated with Dream 11.