Scout
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- Mumbai Indians' kit is Nike from 2027. Brands on MI's shirt will sit on a product Nike markets and sells.
- Dhoni's 2027 decision comes before December, after retentions close. Price any CSK deal for both outcomes.
- Hardik Pandya's possible move should be settled by 15 November. Buyers looking at KKR or CSK can wait for it.
Nike becomes Mumbai Indians' kit partner
What happened
Nike has signed a multi-year deal as official kit partner of MI's IPL and WPL teams from the 2027 season, covering match, training and fan wear. It is Nike's first IPL team deal since one season with Deccan Chargers in 2008. No value was disclosed. Business Today ↗
What it means for sponsors
MI's jersey becomes a Nike retail product, pushed through Nike's own marketing well beyond match days. Expect MI to use that when it prices 2027 jersey spots, so ask what the retail plan adds to your exposure, in numbers.
Dhoni's 2027 call waits on fitness tests
What happened
Speaking in Bengaluru on 25 October, MS Dhoni said whether he plays IPL 2027 depends on medical tests and his fitness, with a decision before December. He missed all of 2026 with a calf injury, and CSK finished eighth. India TV ↗
What it means for sponsors
Much of CSK's pull with brands rests on Dhoni, and his answer lands after the 15 November retention deadline. A brand signing with CSK before December should price two cases, with him and without him, or tie part of the fee to his availability.
Hardik Pandya trade talks narrow to three teams
What happened
Seven franchises showed interest in trading for Hardik Pandya, now down to three, with KKR and CSK the most linked. A decision could come by early November, though Mumbai Indians hold the final say and no trade is certain. Yahoo Sports, citing Cricbuzz ↗
What it means for sponsors
The team that lands him gains one of India's most marketable cricketers. A brand choosing between KKR and CSK loses little by waiting until 15 November. MI's own sponsors should ask how the team's visibility plan changes if he leaves.
Inventory watch
- **IPL 2027:** associations open across all 10 teams, including the three in today's stories, Mumbai Indians, CSK and KKR. Each has its 2026 value mapped by TrueVal, so ask for a read before you commit. - **Films, next 30 days:** co-branding on *Ramayana: Part I* (5 Nov) and *Yeh Prem Mol Liya* (27 Nov). In-film on *King* (24 Dec) is open now. - [Every open slot](https://justaboutsportz.com/opportunities)
Number of the day
Source ↗