Google puts Gemini on the front page as the T20 World Cup kicks off

Seven days after the ICC named Google Gemini as the Official AI Fan Companion and Google Pixel as the Official Smartphone for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Google has launched a full front-and-back jacket takeover of The Times of India to promote Gemini.

The print creative is set against a floodlit cricket stadium at dusk. A large smartphone screen displays the Gemini interface with the line, “The one place for all your plays.” The prompt on the screen reads, “Hi Cricket fan. Where should we start?” alongside a suggestion to “Explore cricket.” The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 India & Sri Lanka logo appears at the bottom with Google Gemini branding, linking the product to the ongoing tournament.

The reverse side of the jacket invites readers to “Explore cricket from every angle” and participate in a contest to create their own fan looks for a chance to win a trip to a World Cup match. The creative highlights Gemini’s ability to provide match facts, player insights and cricket trivia, positioning it as a digital companion for fans.

Google has also released an ad film to promote the contest. The film features cricket commentator Ravi Shastri and filmmaker Farah Khan.

The campaign comes as brands compete for visibility during the T20 World Cup, a period typically dominated by beverage companies, fantasy sports platforms and fintech advertisers. Google’s approach ties Gemini to cricket fandom, positioning the AI assistant within a widely followed national event rather than focusing on technical features.

The messaging draws on Google’s long-standing association with live scores and match-related searches. The line “The one place for all your plays” serves as both a cricket reference and a platform statement, suggesting a single destination for multiple AI interactions.

OpenAI has also referenced cricket in its India-focused communication. A recent ad film shows an aspiring cricketer preparing for selectors with support from ChatGPT, highlighting practical applications of the chatbot.

Over the past year, Google has promoted Gemini across Android devices, integrated it into Pixel campaigns, and run contextual marketing around exam season, travel and small business productivity. It has also conducted on-ground demonstrations at technology and startup events to position Gemini as an assistant and creative tool.

With its latest print and film campaign timed to the T20 World Cup, Google is extending Gemini’s presence into mainstream, mass-market advertising, linking AI usage to everyday cricket engagement.