Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and MS Dhoni Face ₹200 Crore Loss After India Bans Online Gaming Platforms

The Indian government’s recent decision to ban online gaming platforms has sent shockwaves through the sports and entertainment industry. Among the biggest names affected are cricket superstars Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and MS Dhoni, who are set to suffer combined financial losses of nearly ₹200 crore due to suspended or terminated endorsement contracts.

1. Why the Online Gaming Ban Was Imposed

Authorities cited several key reasons for banning online gaming and fantasy sports platforms in India:

1. Growing concerns about illegal betting and money laundering.

2. Rising cases of youth addiction to gaming apps.

3. Increasing financial risks and unregulated market practices.

The government’s decision aims to protect consumers and regulate the industry, but it has also created ripple effects in Indian cricket sponsorship.

2. Impact on Indian Cricket Superstars

For years, online gaming platforms and fantasy sports apps were among the top sponsors of Indian cricketers. Endorsements with these companies made up a large part of their brand income:

1. Virat Kohli – Actively promoted fantasy sports platforms and gaming ads.

2. Rohit Sharma – Featured in several campaigns for fantasy sports brands.

3. MS Dhoni – One of the most visible faces of gaming advertisements, especially during the IPL season.

With the sudden ban, these contracts have either been suspended or canceled, resulting in a collective loss of nearly ₹200 crore for the three cricketing icons.

3. Wider Industry Impact

The online gaming ban doesn’t just hit cricketers. It also affects:

1. Gaming startups that relied heavily on celebrity-driven promotions.

2. Advertising agencies that invested in high-profile campaigns.

3. Entertainment and sports sponsorship models, which are now forced to shift strategies.

Experts say that celebrity endorsements were a major factor in attracting millions of users to these platforms. With the ban, a major revenue stream for both players and brands has collapsed.

4. What’s Next for Celebrities and Sponsors?

Industry analysts believe that cricket stars like Kohli, Rohit, and Dhoni may now turn to other industries such as:

1. Fintech and digital payments

2. Edtech and online learning

3. Health, lifestyle, and fitness brands

While these sectors may help fill the gap, the ban represents a major shift in sponsorship trends in India. Moving forward, celebrity endorsements for online gaming companies will likely face stricter scrutiny and regulatory checks.

5. The Bigger Question: Future of Gaming Sponsorships

This development raises important debates about:

1. The future of gaming sponsorships in Indian sports.

2. The responsibility of celebrities in promoting online gaming platforms.

3. The government’s role in balancing economic growth with social concerns.

As the dust settles, it’s clear that the ban has reshaped India’s advertising and sponsorship ecosystem, while also changing the financial landscape for some of its biggest cricketing legends.