The Swoosh is Back in Cricket: What Nike’s Mumbai Indians Deal Really Means
Starting with the 2027 season, Nike takes over from Skechers as the official kit and apparel partner for the Mumbai Indians across both the men’s IPL and women’s WPL teams. It is Nike’s first IPL franchise tie-up in 18 years, following a brief one-season stint with the Deccan Chargers back in 2008.
XtraTime Webdesk: Nike watched the Indian cricket market boom from the sidelines after walking away in 2020. Rival brands moved fast: Adidas locked down the national team, and Puma turned RCB and Delhi Capitals into massive athleisure machines. Now, Nike is making its move.
Starting with the 2027 season, Nike takes over from Skechers as the official kit and apparel partner for the Mumbai Indians across both the men’s IPL and women’s WPL teams. It is Nike’s first IPL franchise tie-up in 18 years, following a brief one-season stint with the Deccan Chargers in 2008.
Why Mumbai, and why now? Because franchise cricket in India is no longer just a two-month tournament window; it is a year-round lifestyle market. By backing the "Paltan," Nike gets instant access to one of the biggest, most commercially aggressive fanbases in global T20 cricket.
The deal isn’t just about putting a Swoosh on the famous blue-and-gold match jersey. Both brands are betting heavily on Mumbai’s streetwear culture, planning fan-focused lifestyle drops alongside standard training and travel gear. While the official 2027 match kits will be revealed closer to the tournaments, players, coaches, and staff are already stepping out in Nike training wear.
India’s sportswear market is hot, and sitting out wasn't an option anymore. With Mumbai Indians, Nike isn't just returning to the pitch; it’s fighting for Indian street culture.
