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Cricket (Sport)

Shubman Gill's MRF Bat Sponsorship Deal Triggers Backlash

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Shubman Gill's decision to sport a bat sticker with the word "Prince" written on it has sparked a controversy, with many accusing him of being self-obsessed and overhyped. The critics point out that Sachin Tendulkar never used the tag "God" on his bat, and Virat Kohli never used the tag "King" on his bat. Meanwhile, it is reported that Gill's bat sponsorship deal with MRF is estimated to be worth Rs 8-10 crore per year, similar to Sachin Tendulkar's deal.

Key Takeaways:

  • Shubman Gill's bat sticker with the word "Prince" written on it has sparked a backlash, with many accusing him of being self-obsessed and overhyped.
  • Sachin Tendulkar never used the tag "God" on his bat, while Virat Kohli never used the tag "King" on his bat, creating a double standard for Gill.
  • MRF's sponsorship deal with Shubman Gill is estimated to be worth Rs 8-10 crore per year, similar to Sachin Tendulkar's deal.
  • Gill's deal value is also comparable to other MRF sponsors like Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan, indicating a significant investment in the young cricketer.
  • Gill's use of the "Prince" tag on his bat has drawn comparisons to Brian Lara, who was the first to be known as a "Prince" in cricket.
  • Gill's performance records, including a below 35 Test average and zero overseas centuries across all formats after 5 years in his international career, have raised questions about his abilities.
  • The controversy surrounding Gill's bat sticker and sponsorship deal has drawn attention to the marketing efforts of MRF, which has sponsored some of the biggest names in Indian cricket, including Kohli, Tendulkar, and Sachin.

Statistics:

  • Shubman Gill's estimated annual sponsorship deal with MRF is worth Rs 8-10 crore per year.
  • Sachin Tendulkar's bat sponsorship deal with MRF is reportedly worth around Rs 12.5 crore per year.
  • MRF has had associations with stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Brian Lara, Gautam Gambhir, Steve Waugh, and AB de Villiers.
  • The 2025 Champions Trophy series will be held from June to August, with matches scheduled at Headingley in Leeds, Edgbaston in Birmingham, Lord's, The Oval in London, and Old Trafford in Manchester.
  • Gill's Test average is below 35, and he has zero overseas centuries across all formats after 5 years in his international career.

Sources:

  • ABP Private Limited (2025)
  • Contify.com (distributed by)

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