Indian cricket fans got their first look at the national team’s new ODI kit during a pre-series photo shoot at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The updated kit now features the Apollo Tires logo on the front, replacing Dream11, which was India’s main sponsor until recently. Dhruv Jurel and Nitish Kumar Reddy represented India at the shoot while Australia fielded Mitchell Starc and Travis Head. All-rounder Axar Patel attended the informal press interaction alone.
Reaction to the new design was mixed. Some fans praised the modern look and clean aesthetic, but others criticized the size of the Apollo Tires logo, saying it dominated the front of the jersey and pushed the “INDIA” label lower than previous versions. The jersey design debate reflects the high expectations fans have for India’s on-field presentation as the team prepares for the upcoming series.
India are set to take on Australia in the much-anticipated three-match ODI series starting on October 19. Excitement is especially high with the return of star batsmen Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to play in ODIs after recently retiring from T20Is and Tests. Their presence is expected to be a big draw for fans both in the stadium and watching from home. Travis Head and Axar Patel took part in a candid pre-match press conference.
Change in sponsorship it came after the Indian government passed the Online Gaming Promotion and Regulation Bill 2025 in August, which banned real-money gaming. Dream11, whose business model relies on such playing, has pulled out of its contract with the BCCI, leaving a vacancy for a major sponsorship. Apollo Tires have stepped into the role to provide the team with a new commercial partner as they head into the series against Australia.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
October 17, 2025
