Google’s Gemini AI has struck up a sponsorship deal with the Indian Premier League (IPL), reports claimed. One of the fastest-growing leagues in the world, the IPL’s brand value continues to grow exponentially. ChatGPT earlier sponsored the Women’s Premier League in a two-year deal, which was valued at around Rs 16 crore. According to a recent PTI report, IPL have received a new sponsorship from Gemini, which will be in the region of Rs 270 crore. “The deal is for three years and reinforces IPL’s global appeal,” a BCCI official told PTI. The report claimed that AI-led platforms are looking to partner with Indian cricket, and this may be becoming an industry trend. Gemini sponsors IPL in 3-year deal According to the report, the sponsorship will run for a three-year tenure. The growth of artificial intelligence has seen brands turn to the Indian cricket ecosystem to gain more eyeballs. Last year, Canva, the design platform, tried to sponsor the jersey of the Indian cricket team, but its bid, worth Rs 554 crore, fell short in comparison to the Rs 579 crore paid by Apollo Tyres. The renowned tyre manufacturer became the principal sponsor of the Indian jersey for the 2025-28 cycle after replacing Dream 11, following the real-money gaming ban from the Indian government. The report claimed that AI apps are looking to make many more partnerships in sports entertainment, particularly in cricket. The government’s ban last year on real money gaming, including fantasy sports, wiped out nearly Rs 7,000 crore of advertising spending from the market almost overnight. IPL 2026 season begins on 26 March The upcoming 19th edition of the cash-rich league will begin on 26 March, while the final will be played on 31 March. The number of fixtures have been increased to 84 this year, and more money is expected to be made with the matches being increased to 94 potentially. Post navigation ‘If ICC bows to pressure from BCCI…’:Bangladesh sports advisor adamant, ‘We cannot be pressurised to play in India’ India Women to play 5 T20Is against South Africa:Series scheduled in April, ICC T20 World Cup in England from June 12