Shubman Gill’s ‘Just Do It’ Moment May Cost Him Big: Captain’s Signal Sparks BCCI–Adidas Contract Violation Row
Shubman Gill’s ‘Just Do It’ Moment May Cost Him Big: Captain’s Signal Sparks BCCI–Adidas Contract Violation Row
Wearing Nike vest during live Test match raises concerns over breach of ₹300 crore official kit deal
India’s Test captain Shubman Gill has unintentionally landed himself — and possibly the BCCI — in a controversy after he was spotted wearing a black Nike vest during a live match, potentially violating the cricket board’s multi-crore contract with official kit sponsor Adidas.
The incident occurred during the 83rd over of India’s second innings in the Test match, when Gill was seen on the team balcony wearing a Nike-branded sleeveless jersey while signaling to teammates Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja to return. His appearance in Nike apparel — Adidas’ direct competitor — has now raised eyebrows, especially because Adidas holds exclusive rights to produce official kits for India’s men’s, women’s, and youth teams under a contract valid till 2028.
Social media users quickly caught on, with reactions pouring in. One user commented, “How is Gill wearing Nike when Adidas is the official sponsor? Hope BCCI acts on this.” Another said, “Wearing a Nike vest with the logo visible on the chest while being the captain? That’s disrespectful to the sponsor. Penalty likely.”
The BCCI-Adidas deal, which began in June 2023 with the Indian team debuting the kit during the World Test Championship Final, is estimated to be worth between ₹250 to ₹300 crore — roughly ₹75 lakh per match. As per the terms, Adidas is the exclusive supplier of all official team apparel.
Meanwhile, Shubman Gill is also a Nike brand ambassador — a deal reportedly worth crores — further complicating matters. If the Nike vest worn during the match is deemed a breach, it could result in disciplinary action, or at the very least, a formal warning.
This episode has once again spotlighted the delicate balance athletes must maintain between personal endorsements and team obligations, especially when massive commercial contracts are involved. Whether the BCCI takes action remains to be seen, but the message is clear: in cricket as in branding, every detail matters.
