Brands
Google’s Gemini strikes golden deal with BCCI
MUMBAI: Google’s artificial intelligence platform Gemini has hit a six in the sponsorship stakes, securing a Rs 270 crore deal with the Board of Control for Cricket in India ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League. The three-year partnership marks another win for AI platforms muscling into India’s cricket-mad market—Gemini’s rival ChatGPT is already padding up as a sponsor of the ongoing Women’s Premier League.
The timing couldn’t be better for the BCCI, which has been scrambling for sponsors since the Indian government sent real-money gaming platforms packing last year. Dream11, once a fixture on team jerseys, bowled out following the Online Gaming Bill 2025. Apollo Tyres stepped in to replace it with a heftier Rs 579 crore jersey deal, whilst Tata Group continues to hold the title sponsorship rights for the world’s biggest T20 league.
“The deal reinforces IPL’s global appeal,” a BCCI official told PTI, though one suspects the Rs 270 crore cheque doesn’t hurt either.
The AI invasion of cricket signals a broader shift in sponsorship patterns. When ChatGPT’s WPL deal was announced in November, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia waxed lyrical about partnerships spanning “global leaders in AI, manufacturing and beverages to trusted Indian consumer brands” shaping the fan experience.
The 2026 IPL kicks off on 26 March and runs until 31 May, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru set to open proceedings at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium—which recently regained approval to host matches after a tragic stampede during title celebrations last June claimed 11 lives.
As tech titans queue up to sponsor cricket, one thing’s clear: in the battle for India’s eyeballs, AI platforms are playing to win. Game on.
Brands
Devyani International names Sandeep Anand, Robinder Singh in key roles
Pizza Hut and Costa Coffee businesses see leadership refresh from April
MUMBAI: Devyani International has strengthened its senior leadership bench with a fresh set of appointments across its key brands, Pizza Hut and Costa Coffee, signalling a sharper focus on growth and brand momentum.
The company has appointed Sandeep Anand as chief marketing officer and business head for Pizza Hut. His appointment, approved by the board via a circular resolution on April 3, follows a recommendation by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, as reported by CNBC-TV18. Anand will officially step into the role on April 6, 2026.
He takes over from Vijay Gogate, who currently serves as chief executive officer for Pizza Hut within the company’s operations. The move marks a strategic transition as the brand looks to sharpen its marketing and business playbook in a competitive quick service restaurant market.
Anand brings over two decades of experience across the food and FMCG sectors, with a strong track record in brand building and innovation. His career spans roles at major consumer-facing companies including Domino’s, Zydus Wellness, Zomato, GSK Consumer Healthcare, Reckitt and Ranbaxy, giving him a well-rounded perspective on both scale and agility.
Alongside this, Robinder Singh has been appointed business head for Costa Coffee and the company’s airport operations. He too will assume his new role on April 6, bringing more than 18 years of experience in operations, business expansion and customer experience transformation.
The twin appointments come at a time when Devyani International is doubling down on leadership depth to steer its portfolio through evolving consumer preferences and heightened competition. With fresh faces at the helm of two key verticals, the company appears set to brew up its next phase of growth with renewed energy.
