Advertising rates have surged by 25 percent for the upcoming India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup match, as experts are dubbing the group-stage clash a “commercial supernova.”
According to reports, standard premium TV ad slots for the T20 World Cup typically range between ₹2 million and ₹2.5 million per 10-second spot. However, the historic rivalry between the two sides has pushed the rate for the short slot to a record ₹4 million.
Companies from the automotive (Hyundai, Mahindra), FMCG (Amul, Britannia), and fintech sectors are competing heavily for advertising space.
Industry estimates suggest total advertising revenue for the tournament could reach up to ₹20 billion, with a major portion coming from this single match. Digital platforms have also seen a spike, with JioHotstar charging ₹1.5–2 million for a 10-second live-stream ad slot.
The Pakistan Cricket Board’s recent reversal on its initial boycott decision further fueled demand, leading to a shortage of ad slots.
The hype has extended beyond TV, affecting travel and hospitality. Round-trip airfare from Delhi and Mumbai to Colombo has risen to ₹118,000, roughly 300% higher than normal.
Hotel bookings for the weekend of February 15 have doubled, with four- and five-star properties increasing rates by 20–25%.
Despite the massive commercial potential, weather remains the only factor that could dampen what is expected to be the most-watched and profitable cricket match in history at R Premadasa Stadium.
