The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) plans to ban all tobacco, alcohol, and cryptocurrency advertisements during the upcoming IPL 2025 season. This decision follows a directive from the health ministry urging the board to eliminate such sponsorships, including surrogate ads.
The official discussion will take place during an Apex Council meeting in Kolkata, right before the IPL 2025 opener. The tournament kicks off on March 22, featuring the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), facing off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Eden Gardens.
The agenda for this crucial meeting includes item No. 9, which specifically mentions the ban on sponsorships from tobacco and crypto brands. The BCCI aims to create a healthier environment for fans and players alike, reflecting a growing awareness of health issues related to smoking and drinking.
In addition to the sponsorship ban, the BCCI will address other vital matters. The board plans to establish an organizing committee for the Women’s ODI World Cup, scheduled to take place in October 2025. The last time India hosted this event was in 2013, and excitement is building as the country prepares to welcome the tournament back.
Members of the Apex Council will discuss the formation of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the Women’s Cricket World Cup and consider potential venues. With India’s women’s team having reached the finals in the past, they are eager to secure their first ICC trophy on home soil.
The council will also finalize plans for the 2025-26 domestic season, which includes a series against West Indies and South Africa. Decisions regarding the venues for these Test matches are expected to be made during the meeting.
Additionally, with new office-bearers taking charge, the BCCI will approve changes in signatories for its bank accounts. This step is part of a broader effort to streamline operations and ensure effective financial management.
As the IPL season approaches, all eyes will be on the BCCI’s decisions, especially regarding the advertising ban. Fans and players alike are hopeful that these changes will pave the way for a more responsible and inclusive cricketing environment. The discussions in Kolkata promise to shape the future of cricket sponsorship in India.
