As the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 draws closer, excitement among fans is reaching a fever pitch. The India vs. Pakistan clash is set to be the showstopper of the tournament, with the world eagerly watching one of the most intense rivalries in the cricketing world. While fans can expect a thrilling contest on the field, broadcasters are also set to make a massive windfall, with TV ad rates during the India-Pakistan match soaring to new heights.
According to advertising rate cards released by Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), the television broadcasting rights holder for the Asia Cup 2025, a mere 10 second ad slot during the high voltage India vs Pakistan encounter will cost advertisers a staggering ₹16 lakh.
Massive Revenue Expected from Ad Slots
The match between India and Pakistan is always a marquee event that draws massive viewership, both in India and globally. As per the report from Economic Times, the ad inventory for the Asia Cup 2025 will range between ₹14 to ₹16 lakh for a 10 second TV commercial during the Indian games, with the India vs. Pakistan match commanding the premium at ₹16 lakh for a 10 second spot. For advertisers, this is an opportunity to capitalize on the massive audience reach of the India Pakistan clash.
Sony Pictures Networks India, the official media rights holder for the Asia Cup, has set some hefty rates for various sponsorship and ad packages as well:
- Co-Presenting Sponsorship: ₹18 crore
- Associate Sponsorship: ₹13 crore
- Spot-Buy Packages (All Indian and Non-Indian Matches): ₹16 lakh per 10 seconds, which totals to ₹4.48 crore for the entire game.
Digital Ad Revenue Soars on Sony LIV
The digital space is also expected to witness a surge in ad revenue, with digital deals priced considerably higher:
- Co-Presenting and Highlights Partner: ₹30 crore each
- Co-Sponsored Packages: ₹18 crore
- 30% of All Digital Ads Reserved for Indian Matches
Additionally, ad rates for different formats on Sony LIV (the digital streaming platform) are also impressive:
- Pre-Roll Ads: ₹275 per 10 seconds (₹500 for Indian matches; ₹750 for India vs Pakistan)
- Mid-Roll Ads: ₹225 (₹400 for Indian matches; ₹600 for India vs Pakistan)
- Connected TV Ads: ₹450 (₹800 for Indian matches; ₹1,200 for India vs Pakistan)
What’s at Stake: A Potential Boycott?
Despite the excitement, there is some uncertainty looming over India’s participation in the match against Pakistan, following the recent attack in Pahalgam. This has fueled speculation that India may not play against Pakistan, just as the Indian team chose to boycott their World Championship of Legends match against Pakistan earlier this year. The final call will depend on the political and diplomatic situation as the tournament approaches.
The Asia Cup 2025 kicks off on September 9, and the India vs. Pakistan match, which is expected to be a blockbuster, is scheduled for September 14. Fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the showdown, but the bigger question remains will the match go ahead as planned, or will India take a stand? Only time will tell.
In the meantime, broadcasters and advertisers are counting their profits, ready to cash in on what promises to be a cricketing spectacle like no other.
