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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday told the Delhi High Court that it was not willing to enter into mediation with Delhi Press Patra Prakashan, the publisher of the iconic children's magazine Champak, Bar & Bench reported. 

This was over a trademark dispute concerning the use of the name "Champak" for a robotic dog featured during the Indian Premier League (IPL).

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The matter was heard by Justice Saurabh Banerjee, who listed the case for further proceedings in September after both parties made their initial submissions.

During the hearing, advocate Amit Gupta, representing Delhi Press, indicated the publisher's willingness to resolve the matter amicably now that the IPL season had ended.

"If they tell us that they won't use 'Champak' in the upcoming season, we will not pursue this case further," Gupta told the court, adding that his client was open to mediation, the report added.

However, advocate Tanmay Mehta, representing the BCCI, firmly declined any settlement or mediation, arguing that commercial considerations were involved in the use of the name and that BCCI could not offer such an undertaking. 

Mehta further claimed that the real intent behind the lawsuit was to extract a financial settlement from BCCI, calling it an attempt to capitalise on the cricket board’s prominence.

In April 2025, Delhi Press had approached the court, asserting that Champak is a well-established children's magazine and that the IPL's decision to name its AI-powered robotic dog "Champak" amounted to trademark infringement. The magazine, in publication since 1969, is a registered trademark.

The counsel pointed out that although the robot dog had been featured earlier in the tournament, the name “Champak” was officially adopted only on April 23, reportedly based on fan votes, and that this usage was unauthorised and widely circulated in the media.

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The court, however, questioned how the IPL’s use of the name amounted to “commercial exploitation” or conferred any unfair advantage. Gupta replied that the unauthorised use of the registered trademark led to dilution of the brand identity, especially given its long-standing association with children's content.

Justice Banerjee noted that the current pleadings lacked specific allegations of commercial exploitation. In response, Gupta cited the promotional campaigns around the robotic dog as examples of brand usage in a commercial setting.

When the judge raised the example of cricketer Virat Kohli, popularly known by his nickname ‘Chiku’, Gupta clarified that unlike Kohli - who had not launched a commercial product using that moniker - the IPL had used “Champak” in connection with marketing and merchandise, thereby breaching trademark rights, the report added.

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BCCI rejects Champak Magazine's offer to settle IPL robotic dog trademark dispute

In a long-anticipated move, the Union Cabinet approved the National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025, replacing the outdated 2001 framework with an ambitious vision aimed at transforming India into a global sporting powerhouse. The revamped policy lays the foundation for India's aspirations at the 2036 Olympic Games, strengthening its focus on athletic excellence, infrastructure, and grassroots development.

But amid the celebrations, a growing and vocal industry is crying foul: esports has once again been left out.

Despite recent gains—such as esports titles being included in the Khelo India Youth Games and growing state-level engagement—the omission of esports from the NSP 2025 has struck a nerve with stakeholders who say the government is missing a golden opportunity to harness India’s immense gaming potential.

Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, amended the rules and ordered India’s Department of Sports, which falls under the ambit of India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, to act as the nodal agency for esports in the country.

The broader gaming industry and matters related to it is governed by India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, as per the new amendment. The change clearly establishes esports as a separate entity from Real Money Gaming. 

Manoj Kasyap, founder of Hyderabad-based Velocity Gaming, didn’t mince words. “There’s a social stigma around esports,” he said, “and a lack of understanding between skill-based games and betting apps. That ignorance is holding us back. Its sad to see that esports is being sidelined , it could also be the negative publicity that mobile games usually get in the conventional media."

He added that the lack of major achievements by Indian esports organizations on the global stage might also be a reason for the government's reluctance. “But how do we win globally if we’re not supported at home?”

Rohit Jagasia, CEO of Revenant Esports, emphasized that esports should be given “the same importance and structured support” as traditional sports. “The scale and passion are undeniable,” he said. “India has one of the world’s largest esports audiences. With proper investment, this could become a multi-billion dollar industry and a legitimate career path for thousands.”

On the other hand, Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in esports infrastructure. According to Niko Partners, which produces video game market intelligence, more than half of self-described gamers in Saudi Arabia engage in esports, whether by watching or competing.

The Saudi video game market is growing faster than other countries in the region, with Niko projecting a five-year compound annual growth rate of more than 2 percent to hit $1.7 billion in 2029. The kingdom is investing in video games across the board, linked to its Vision 2030 diversification goals. 

It was recently revealed that rapper Post Malone will headline the opening ceremony. Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the tournament’s global ambassador for 2025. This year’s Esports World Cup features an unprecedented $70 million prize pool, which is the largest in the history of esports (last year’s pool came up to $62.5 million). The 2025 edition will feature 25 tournaments across 24 titles, spanning genres like shooters, strategy, sports, fighting, and mobile games.

Shiva Nandy, CEO of Skyesports, points to structural gaps: “India still doesn’t have a nationally recognized sports federation for esports. That makes it nearly impossible for the central government to formulate long-term policies.”

Despite that, he notes progress: esports has been included in government cash incentive programs for international medalists, and states like Tamil Nadu, Bihar, and Maharashtra have included esports in their official sports calendars. Events like the Chennai Esports Global Championship have also helped put India on the map.

Still, the lack of a unified national push means most players are left training without infrastructure, recognition, or institutional support.

Nandy argues that esports demands just as much rigor and discipline as any other sport. “Our athletes practice for 8–10 hours a day, leave home for months to train, and dream of representing India. Why should they be treated any differently?”

The NSP 2025 is the outcome of extensive consultations involving Central Ministries, NITI Aayog, State Governments, National Sports Federations (NSFs), athletes, domain experts, and public stakeholders. The policy is anchored on five key pillars viz. Excellence on the Global Stage, Sports for Economic Development, Sports for Social Development, Sports as a People’s Movement and Integration with Education (NEP 2020).

Akhil Kavuturu, co-founder of Marcos Gaming, agrees. “Esports players focus on strategy, mental health, fitness, and nutrition—just like Olympians. The U.S., China, and South Korea already issue sports visas for esports athletes. India should be next.”

For Rushindra Sinha, CEO of Global Esports, government support doesn’t mean subsidies. “We don’t need interference,” he said, “we need facilitation—especially with things like visas for international tournaments.”

Kuldeep Kumar, CEO of Villager Esports, added that taxation reform is the most urgent issue. “Esports professionals are taxed like businesses—over 30% of their earnings. That’s unfair. Recognizing esports under sports would not only offer financial relief but also encourage more grassroots events.”

"We want esports to be seen for what it is: a legitimate, high-skill, competitive activity with massive potential for India, both in terms of global recognition and economic growth. It is time to put it on the same playing field as every other sport. we genuinely believe esports should get the same respect and support as cricket, football, or kabaddi in India," said Chetan Chandgude, Founder of Godlike Esports. 

As India charts its sporting future, leaving esports on the sidelines risks alienating a generation that lives and breathes digital competition. Recognizing esports as more than a game—but as a legitimate pursuit of excellence—might just be the game-changer Indian sports policy needs.

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India unveils National Sports Policy 2025, but Esports gets benched again

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has officially approved the launch of the Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) - the country's first-ever franchise-based golf league, set to debut in January 2026.

The green signal came after a high-level meeting in New Delhi on Wednesday, where IGU Director Major General (Retd) Bibhuti Bhushan, IGPL Board members, and Champika Sayal, Secretary General of the Women's Golf Association of India (WGAI), met with Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

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"I can say with utmost pleasure that the Sports Ministry has given us the nod to the organise the first-ever Indian Golf Premier League, which aims at popularising the sport in Bharat," said Bhushan in an official statement. "Through IGPL, we will scout and nurture world-class golf talent who will proudly represent Bharat on the global stage."

The IGPL will be organized in partnership with Bharat Golf Private Limited and will follow a city-based franchise format, welcoming both professional and amateur golfers in team-based competitions.

Significantly, the league has a broader developmental vision beyond tournaments. According to the organisers, the IGPL plans to provide international-standard training and coaching to over 10 lakh school and college students over the next three years - a major push towards grassroots sports development.

Minister Mandaviya, who has been vocal about encouraging a "league culture" in Indian sports, reiterated the ministry's commitment to supporting such initiatives that boost India's global sporting presence.

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Sports Ministry approves inaugural edition of Indian Golf Premier League

In a significant move aimed at curbing the promotion of offshore betting platforms, the Tamil Nadu government, through its Online Gaming Authority (TNOGA), has initiated action against surrogate advertisements and sponsorships in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL). The authority recently held discussions with senior TNPL officials to flag concerns over several team franchises being sponsored by gambling and betting companies.

According to TNOGA, teams such as Trichy Grand Cholas (sponsored by FOMO7), Chepauk Super Gillies (Melbat), Lyca Kovai Kings (1xBat), and Nellai Royal Kings (Dafa News), among others have violated state law by associating with platforms linked to online gambling. The authority has called these surrogate advertisements “prima facie objectionable” under the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gaming and Regulation of Online Games Act.

A TNOGA official stated, “We have met senior officials from the league to intimate them about the league flouting TNOGA rules. Even surrogate advertisement of online betting apps is not allowed as per Section 8 of the Act.” Violations under this section can invite a one-year prison term or a fine of up to ₹5 lakh, as per Section 16(2).

Beyond state-level action, TNOGA is also considering invoking Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which allows the central government to block access to offending online platforms. A request to that effect would be routed through the Tamil Nadu Home Department to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

Roland Landers, CEO of the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), welcomed the crackdown. “This is a commendable and much-needed step that sets the right precedent for promoting responsible gaming and safeguarding Indian consumers from illegal, unregulated offshore betting operators,” he said. Landers emphasized the need to distinguish between fully compliant Indian gaming firms and rogue foreign entities that exploit regulatory gaps.

“These operators bypass taxation, evade regulatory oversight, and expose users—especially youth and vulnerable populations—to significant financial and psychological risk,” he added.

A real-money gaming (RMG) operator, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that surrogate branding is now a favored strategy among offshore gambling companies, especially after the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s (MIB) advisory dated October 3, 2022, which banned direct advertisements of gambling sites across television, digital news, and OTT platforms.

“Offshore platforms have turned to covert tactics—digital sponsorships, influencer tie-ups, and high-visibility collaborations with tournaments like TNPL. These mislead the public and flout Indian consumer protection laws,” the operator said. He also pointed to violations of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the Guidelines for Prevention of Misleading Advertisements and Endorsements, issued by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA).

The Tamil Nadu government's latest move signals a tougher stance against the normalization of online gambling through sports leagues and a broader commitment to consumer safety and lawful conduct in gaming.

In light of these allegations, the controversy surrounding the TNPL's association with illegal betting and gambling platforms raises questions around implementation of government advisories in the country. It will also be interesting if Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) will flag such incidents of surrogate advertising to the government.

Tamil Nadu govt targets TNPL over surrogate ads by offshore betting platforms, RMG industry applauds

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, setting May 17 as the restart date for the remaining 17 matches of the tournament.

The games will be played across key six cities: Bengaluru, Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad.

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The league was abruptly suspended last week amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The turning point came during the Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs Delhi Capitals (DC) match on May 8 at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala, which was called off midway due to security concerns in nearby regions. Spectators were evacuated immediately, and players and staff were safely transported to Delhi the next day via a special Vande Bharat train.

In a statement issued late Monday evening, the BCCI said, "After extensive consultations with government and security agencies, and with all key stakeholders, the Board has decided to proceed with the remainder of the season."

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The revised schedule includes two double-headers on consecutive Sundays, adding extra excitement for fans as the tournament races towards its grand finale on June 3, 2025. Venue details for the playoff stage will be revealed soon, BCCI added.

The board also took a moment to acknowledge the country's armed forced stating, "The BCCI takes this opportunity to once again salute the bravery and resilience of India's armed forces, whose efforts have enabled the safe return of cricket."

Teams have been instructed to begin the re-assembly process. Several overseas players who had departed India will now be flown back in, depending on travel clearances and availability.

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India's sports industry reached Rs 16,633 crore in 2024, driven by sponsorships (including Ground, team, and Franchise fees), athlete endorsements, and advertising expenses on related content, according to a report.

The GroupM ESP report noted that the Indian sports industry has expanded sevenfold since 2008, when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) introduced the franchising format through the Indian Premier League (IPL). 

This surge in growth highlights the increasing commercialization of sports in the country.

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Cricket, synonymous with India’s sporting identity, remained the undisputed leader, accounting for 85% of the overall sporting industry revenue. With total spending of Rs 14,173 crore ($ 1,687 million), cricket contributed Rs 472 crore ($56 million) to the incremental value in 2024, registering a 3% year-on-year rise. The remaining 15% share was attributed to Emerging Sports, which saw a 19% rise in revenue gain of Rs 396 crore ($47 million).

While the business of cricket thrived on two factors--Team India’s international matches and IPL--the 2024 year also saw challenges due to a 31% reduction in the number of games played by the men's team.

According to the report, the combined revenue of all IPL sponsorships fell short of the goals set for the 2024 edition. Overall sponsorship spending across sports saw a modest 1% rise over 2023.


Sports endorsements saw a 32% growth from CY2023 to CY2024 – the highest annual growth rate in 14 years, driven by increased fanfare for Team India and the victory in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

The total endorsement spending crossed the Rs 1,000 crore mark for the first time, reaching Rs 1,224 crore ($ 146 million) - almost double the figure from just three
years ago.


Cricketer-led brand endorsement value surged to Rs 1,054 crore ($ 125 million).

Apart from cricket, the Olympics proved to be the prime mover in the endorsement space. Brands exuded trust in athletes from emerging sports – registering 46% YoY growth at Rs 170 crore ($20 million). Athletes such as Manu Bhaker, Neeraj Chopra, and PV Sindhu ensured a nearly 50% growth YoY in the endorsements pie.


"The dynamics of the sports industry are usually reflected in numbers. Sponsorships, athlete endorsements, and advertising expenses collectively propel the sector to greater heights, driving its evolution towards a more mature ecosystem. Several factors shape this trajectory, from macro-level forces like socio-cultural shifts, economic trends, and technological advancements, to distinct field-specific commercial dynamics," Subhamoy Das National Director, GroupM ESP said.

India's sports industry hits Rs 16,633 crore in 2024, driven by sponsorship, endorsements: GroupM

The tournament, set to take place in Switzerland this summer (2–27 July), is anticipated to be the most viewed and attended UEFA Women’s EURO to date. With the game’s growing popularity, Unilever aims to leverage the platform to showcase its portfolio of brands – including Power Brands Hellmann’s, Knorr, Dove, and Rexona – with integrated campaigns that reach consumers in, at, around and away from the stadium.

Robbert de Vreede, General Manager Unilever Foods Europe said: “We are thrilled to partner with the UEFA Women's EURO 2025, enabling our Foods brands to connect with a large audience who come together enjoying the thrill of a football match with friends whilst sharing delicious foods. Just as a great BBQ brings people closer, football unites fans in a shared experience of passion and camaraderie. In this partnership we will create memorable moments that highlight the best of summer – good food, great company, and beautiful games.”

Fulvio Guarneri, General Manager Unilever Personal Care Europe said: “This is an exciting opportunity for some of our biggest brands to tap into a big cultural moment and connect with millions of consumers who will be watching the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025. It’s a great time for women’s football, and this partnership fits perfectly with our Personal Care products which are all about feeling clean and confident, and taking part in sports.

“Together with our retail partners, we look forward to building on the success of last year’s men’s tournament, delivering unmissable campaigns across a variety of channels that celebrate the power of women’s football.”

Guy-Laurent Epstein, UEFA Marketing Director said: “Building on the success of our collaboration last summer, we are delighted to be continuing our partnership with Unilever for UEFA Women’s EURO 2025. The support and interest in women’s football is on a sharp upward trajectory, and with Unilever’s portfolio of Food and Personal Care brands reaching billions of people every day, we look forward to celebrating the power of the game and bringing excitement to fans everywhere.”

The partnership will see the brands activate a range of initiatives designed to enhance the fan experience and promote the company's commitment to growing the women’s game, removing barriers to entry, and inspiring the next generation. Fans can expect to see Unilever's Foods and Personal Care brands prominently featured throughout the tournament, both on and off the pitch.

This announcement solidifies Unilever's strong presence in the global sports arena, following high-profile partnerships with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, FIFA World Cup 2026, the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027, the CAF Africa Cup of Nations, and the CONMEBOL Copa América.



Unilever backs women’s football as official sponsor of UEFA Women's EURO 2025

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, the recipient of the prestigious Col CK. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, delivered a heartfelt speech at the BCCI's annual Naman Awards 2025 ceremony.

With a standing ovation accompanying the award presentation by ICC Chairman Jay Shah, Tendulkar revisited the values passed on by his father, which have shaped both his life and career.

Reflecting on a pivotal chapter from his playing days in the mid-90s, Tendulkar revealed how his commitment to his family's principles cost him dearly.

"In the mid-90s, I played for two years without a bat contract, because they were alcohol and tobacco companies promoting heavily at that time, using bats as a medium to advertise. But all of us at home had taken this decision that I would not promote tobacco or alcohol," he explained. This sacrifice, which led to a two-year gap without a bat sponsorship, was a testament to the values he embraced from an early age.

Tendulkar went on to emphasize that family was the cornerstone of his success. "So that was one big decision in the mid-90s that we, as a family, took and for two years I played without a contract. When it comes to values, I feel that family was my backbone and my strength in my career," he added.

Addressing the next generation of cricketers, Tendulkar offered words of wisdom on maintaining discipline and focus. "I would say, without cricket, all of us wouldn't be sitting in this room. For me, it has been the ultimate gift of my life."

"We have bat and ball, and if there is no solid grip over that, or you start losing grip over the bat and ball, you kind of slowly start losing over your career also," he added. He stressed the importance of avoiding distractions and upholding a standard of conduct that not only benefits personal growth but also elevates India's stature in the cricketing world.

"Just go out, give your best, and make the most of this opportunity, because you only realise once you've stopped playing cricket, where you were a few years ago. So, all the very best to you," Tendulkar concluded.

'In the mid-90s, I played for two years without a bat contract': Sachin Tendulkar reflects on his early playing days

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to introduce a performance-based variable pay structure for its contracted players, according to a report by the Indian Express.

The move follows a series of disappointing performances, including back-to-back Test series losses against New Zealand and Australia.

A key meeting was held last Saturday in Mumbai between BCCI officials, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar to discuss the changes.

The proposal aims to hold players more "accountable" for their performances on the field, with the possibility of a pay cut for those not meeting expectations.

In addition to the performance-linked pay structure, new norms for players' families during overseas tours are also being considered.

Under the new guidelines, players' wives and family members will no longer be allowed to stay for the entire duration of the tours. For longer series, families can stay for only 14 days, and for shorter tours, the limit will be reduced to just seven days.

Furthermore, the BCCI plans to enforce unity within the squad by mandating that all players, regardless of their stature, travel together on the team bus. This rule will extend to Gautam Gambhir's manager, who will no longer be permitted to stay at team hotels, watch matches from the VIP box, or use the team bus.

These changes are part of the BCCI's effort to strengthen discipline and focus within the team as they prepare for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in the UAE, set to begin on February 19.

BCCI set to implement performance-based pay structure for players

Jay Shah, the recently appointed chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), is expected to attend the special general meeting (SGM) of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in Mumbai on Sunday, as a "special invitee."

According to The Telegraph, the SGM, convened to elect the new secretary and treasurer of the BCCI, will see Assam's Devajit Saikia assume the secretary role, and Prabhtej Singh from the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Association take over as treasurer unopposed. 

This transition comes after Ashish Shelar vacated the treasurer position upon his induction into the Maharashtra cabinet as a minister.

Saikia, who was recently appointed interim secretary by BCCI president roger Binny under special constitutional powers, will formally take charge at the meeting.

Shah’s presence as ICC chairman marks a significant moment. Sources cited in the report confirm that Shah's participation aligns with a precedent set by former ICC chairman N. Srinivasan, who attended BCCI meetings during his tenure in 2014-2015.

While ICC rules prohibit formal association of the chairperson with member associations, the BCCI’s constitution lacks explicit restrictions, allowing Shah to attend. Shah is also expected to be felicitated during the meeting for his elevation to the ICC chairmanship.

Amid the procedural transitions, a petition challenging the tenure of BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla could stir controversy. The petition, submitted to the electoral officer, alleges that Shukla’s cumulative tenure exceeds the nine-year limit prescribed by the Supreme Court.

The SGM may also address Team India’s recent performance in Australia, though it remains uncertain whether formal interactions with the support staff and selection committee will take place.

Meanwhile, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) will be represented by president Snehasish Ganguly, albeit without voting rights, as the association failed to submit his name by the stipulated deadline.

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