Guide to Cricket Betting in India

Bharath Tripathi

Updated: 09.09.2025

Betting on cricket in India feels more like an old habit mixed with gadgets than simple fun. I am compiling a list of the safest places to bet, useful tips, and a simple walkthrough of what the law actually says. My own observations of the games and a few books suggest that a few clear, honest sites stand out. You can check them out whenever you want, though I can't promise they're all flawless, and they may not all work.

Top Cricket Betting in India

1
1XBET
1XBET
9.8
9.8/10
  • Super simple signup process
  • Variety of payment methods
  • Mobile app
100% UP to ₹20,000
2
Betway
Betway
9.7
9.7/10
  • Aadhaar based registration
  • Covers all major sports
  • Good promotions
100% UP to ₹2,500
3
Megapari
Megapari
9.6
9.6/10
  • Good Welcome bonus offer
  • Casino betting events
  • Support is 24/7
100% UP to ₹9,000
4
20BET
20BET
9.5
9.5/10
  • 20bet bonus offers
  • 20bet app for iOS and Apk
  • Casino and Sports
100% UP to ₹9,000
5
Paripesa
Paripesa
9.3
9.3/10
  • Paripesa android apk
  • Lots of Cricket betting events.
  • Regular promotions
100% UP to ₹8,500

Cricket betting sites have changed the way fans connect with their favorite sport. Cricket ranks as the world's second most popular game with 2.5 billion fans worldwide. Our team's passion for cricket has let us see the incredible rise of online betting across India, adding an exciting new way to enjoy the game we love.

Indian users can now easily place bets on cricket matches online. The best platforms accept Indian Rupees (INR) and offer popular payment options like UPI, Paytm, and NetBanking. Betting on T20s, ODIs, and Test matches has become much easier. The stakes can be huge though, reaching between ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 crore per match. We've tested these betting sites ourselves and looked at important factors like payout rates that affect your winning potential.

Let us guide you through everything about cricket betting sites in India. You'll learn about trusted platforms, different types of bets, and ways to avoid common mistakes that beginners make. Our team has put together expert advice and verified information to help you get started.

What Makes a Cricket Betting Site Trusted in India

You need to think over several important factors to pick the right cricket betting site. The betting scene in India works under complex laws that need extra watchfulness from users. Here's what makes a cricket betting site trustworthy in India.

Licensing and legal status

Cricket betting laws in India exist in a gray area. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 bans physical gambling houses but doesn't clearly address online betting platforms based overseas. International betting sites can legally serve Indian users if they operate from offshore locations.

You should always check for proper licensing from recognized regulatory authorities when looking at cricket betting sites. Legitimate platforms usually have licenses from:

  • UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
  • Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
  • Curacao eGaming

These licensing bodies enforce strict standards for fair play that ensure operators stay honest in their operations. Licensed sportsbooks are a great way to get protection for your funds and personal information. You'll find the license information displayed clearly at the bottom of the website's homepage.

Sikkim and Nagaland have their own rules for online gaming licenses. Sikkim gives out five-year renewable licenses for online gaming and sports betting. These need an annual fee of INR 500,000 and a yearly bank guarantee of INR 50 million as security. Nagaland has created its own licensing system specifically for online skill games.

Security and data protection

Reliable security measures are the foundations of trustworthy cricket betting sites. Legitimate platforms use SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption technology to protect your personal and financial details during transmission. This encryption creates a secure link between your device and the betting site's servers to stop unauthorized access.

Trusted cricket betting sites follow strict data protection rules that go beyond simple encryption. Industry standards require these platforms to:

  • Use modern SSL encryption technologies
  • Have dedicated servers for data storage
  • Work with reputable payment service providers
  • Follow anti-money laundering regulations
  • Do regular security audits

Responsible gambling tools show a site's dedication to protecting users. These include deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and reality checks that help stop addiction and money problems. Legitimate operators also use Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures to verify user identities and prevent fraud.

Age checks are vital since Indian laws don't allow anyone under 18 to gamble. Sites that strictly enforce these rules show they're serious about following laws and keeping users safe.

Reputation and user reviews

User feedback gives a full picture of how reliable a betting site is. Look for reviews about:

  • Customer support quality and response times
  • Withdrawal processing speed and reliability
  • Overall platform stability and user experience

The best cricket betting sites give you multiple ways to get help, including live chat, email, and phone support. Quick responses matter - quality platforms answer simple questions within minutes through live chat and solve bigger issues within 24 hours.

Language options substantially improve the user experience. Sites that offer support in English, Hindi, and other regional languages work better for Indian users. This multi-language approach shows they're committed to serving the Indian market well.

Check the site's history on independent review sites and forums before you commit. Sites that get positive feedback about payout speed, support quality, and reliability are usually safer choices. Those that openly show their responsible gambling policies and link to problem gambling support services usually run more ethically.

Understanding these three vital aspects—licensing, security measures, and reputation—will help you find trustworthy cricket betting sites in India's market.

Types of Bets You Can Place on Cricket Matches

Cricket betting markets go well beyond simple match outcomes. You can turn your cricket knowledge into potential profits by understanding the various betting options. Let's head over to the most popular betting markets you'll find on cricket betting sites in India.

Match result (win/draw)

The match winner bet gives beginners the simplest way to start. You pick which team will win the match. T20s and ODIs offer a two-way market, while Test cricket adds a third option—the draw. Evenly matched teams in significant Test matches usually show odds between 1.80 and 2.00.

You might want to try the double chance bet, which lets you back a team to either win or draw. This gives you extra security but comes with lower odds. Test cricket fans can find dedicated draw no bet markets, which some call "tied match bets" despite differences between ties and draws in cricket.

Top batsman or bowler

Players who know cricket inside out can find great value in betting on individual performances. The top batsman market asks you to pick which player will score the most runs in a match or innings. A ₹500 bet on Virat Kohli at 3.50 odds would return ₹1,750 if he tops the scoring chart.

Several elements shape a batsman's performance:

  • Current form over their last 5 innings
  • Batting position (vital in T20s)
  • Pitch conditions (flat tracks help skilled batsmen)
  • Match format (longer games benefit middle-order batsmen)

The top bowler market centers on wicket-taking. Cricket betting sites use runs conceded to break ties when bowlers take the same number of wickets. A bowler's strike rate—balls needed per wicket—becomes your most vital statistic.

Innings runs and over/under

The innings runs market lets you bet on a team's total runs. Most bets follow an over/under format with lines like 294.5 runs. Cricket doesn't allow half-runs, so there's always a clear winner.

First innings betting draws many players, with lines usually set near the par score for each ground. Smart bettors wait for live betting shifts to utilize changing conditions. The line might drop from 169.5 to 162.5 at the same odds if India starts slowly at 26/1 after three overs.

Betting sites offer specific period markets like:

  • First six overs in T20s (Powerplay)
  • First ten overs in ODIs
  • Specific sessions in Test matches

Toss winner and method of dismissal

The coin toss market gives you immediate results before play begins. Both teams usually get odds around 1.90 for this even-money bet. Expert bettors combine this with other markets by analyzing how teams perform after winning tosses in specific conditions.

Method of dismissal markets let you predict how a batsman will get out. Common options include caught (1.83 odds), bowled (4.33), keeper catch (4.00), LBW (5.00), run out (26.00), and stumped (51.00). Australian grounds see "caught" dismissals dominate at 71% of wickets.

Live ball-by-ball betting

Live betting brings the most thrilling cricket betting experience. Ball-by-ball betting lets you wager on what happens next delivery. Quick decisions lead to instant results.

Batsman runs markets let you predict a player's score just before they walk to the crease. Indian cricket betting sites now offer excellent live streaming platforms. Mobile bettors get immediate odds updates through cricket betting apps.

These diverse betting markets help you utilize specific cricket knowledge areas. You can focus on player form, pitch conditions, or game situations instead of just picking match winners.

How to Read and Understand Cricket Betting Odds

Understanding cricket betting odds are the foundations of successful betting. Odds serve a practical dual purpose - they tell you the probability of an outcome and what your wager could pay out.

Decimal vs fractional vs American odds

Cricket betting sites in India use decimal odds because they make calculating potential returns straightforward. Decimal odds (like 2.50) show your total return for every ₹100 bet, which includes your stake and profit. A ₹100 bet at 2.50 odds would give you ₹250 total—your original ₹100 plus ₹150 profit.

The UK and Ireland commonly use fractional odds, shown as fractions like 5/1 or 3/5. These show the profit relative to your stake. A ₹100 bet at 5/1 odds gives you ₹500 profit plus your original stake, adding up to ₹600. Odds of 3/5 suggest a likely outcome, giving ₹60 profit on a ₹100 stake.

American odds (moneyline) use plus or minus signs. Plus numbers (+250) reveal potential profit on a ₹100 stake, while minus numbers (-250) show how much you need to bet to win ₹100. Indian cricket betting sites rarely use this format, but knowing them helps with international platforms.

Format comparison for a ₹100 bet:

Odds Type Example Total Return Profit Only
Decimal 2.50 ₹250 ₹150
Fractional 3/2 ₹250 ₹150
American +150 ₹250 ₹150

Implied probability explained

Implied probability shows what odds tell us about an event's likelihood. It converts the bookmaker's assessment into a percentage.

This formula calculates implied probability from decimal odds: Implied Probability (%) = (1 / Decimal Odds) × 100

To cite an instance, see:

  • Odds of 1.5: (1 ÷ 1.5) × 100 = 66.70% probability
  • Odds of 2.0: (1 ÷ 2.0) × 100 = 50% probability

Odds below 2.0 indicate the selection should win. Fractional odds use: Denominator ÷ (Numerator + Denominator) × 100. American odds need different calculations based on positive or negative values.

Here's something interesting: adding up implied probabilities for all possible outcomes exceeds 100%. This extra percentage (usually 4-5%) represents the bookmaker's profit margin or "vig". A match with two possible outcomes at 71.40% and 33.30% totals 104.70%—that extra 4.70% is the bookmaker's edge.

How odds affect your payout

The odds you accept directly determine your potential profits. Higher odds mean bigger possible returns but lower chances of winning.

Small differences in odds between cricket betting sites can substantially change your returns. A ₹1000 bet on India at 1.85 (Site A) versus 2.00 (Site B) would return ₹1850 vs ₹2000—a ₹150 difference. High-stakes bettors wagering ₹5000 to ₹100,000 could see differences worth thousands or lakhs of rupees.

Value betting happens when you spot outcomes more likely than the implied probability suggests. Let's say a bowler's odds suggest a 25% chance of being top wicket-taker, but your analysis shows a 35% chance - you've found a potentially profitable bet.

Cricket betting odds help you calculate winnings and identify value. Smart bettors use probability to make informed decisions rather than just picking winners.

Best Cricket Betting Apps for Indian Users

Mobile apps have changed how people bet on cricket by giving instant access to markets anywhere in India. I tested many platforms and found four outstanding cricket betting apps that shine in specific areas for Indian users.

Stake – Best for crypto users

Stake has become the go-to place for cryptocurrency-based cricket betting. The platform lets you use Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Solana, and Litecoin for quick deposits and withdrawals. Their interface loads in a flash—this is a big deal as it means that live bettors can grab the best odds faster.

Stake's cricket offering stands out with these features:

  • Ball-by-ball live odds for T20 leagues beyond IPL, including CPL and BBL
  • Weekly ₹20,000 giveaways just for Indian bettors
  • Custom bet builder that combines player options
  • Live scoreboard you can pin while betting

Their welcome bonus gives you 200% up to ₹1,00,000, which is great for serious cricket bettors. In spite of that, you need cryptocurrency or conversion since Stake doesn't have direct INR wallet options.

4rabet – Best for UPI and Paytm

4rabet knows what Indian users want when it comes to payments. You can use UPI, PayTM, PhonePe, GPay, and Astropay. The platform has one of the most easy-to-use betting systems, especially when you have a mobile device. The bet slip shows up-to-the-minute odds changes—a great way to get ahead in live betting markets.

The app comes with a Hindi interface and quick live updates. New users get a huge 700% sports welcome bonus, and you only need to deposit ₹300 to start. On top of that, it runs regular cricket prediction contests during major series, with weekly cricket leaderboards that offer cash prizes.

4rabet lets you customize your cricket betting experience. You can first pick cricket from the sportsbook, then narrow it down by format, team, or specific market type.

Parimatch – Best mobile experience

Parimatch shines on mobile through its Android and iOS apps. The app works on Android 5.0+ and iOS 10.0+ devices with smooth animations and built-in KYC checks for Aadhaar/PAN.

The app's best features include:

  • Detailed sports coverage with great kabaddi betting options
  • Match statistics right in the interface
  • Quick bet placement tools
  • Built-in live match-tracking

Parimatch processes withdrawals fast most days, but might slow down during busy IPL periods. The app takes UPI, Paytm, PhonePe deposits in Indian Rupees. In spite of that, older Android versions might crash sometimes and language options are limited to Hindi.

Melbet – Best for live streaming

Melbet makes its mark with amazing live streaming features. Users can watch and bet on top cricket matches at the same time. The platform shows matches from:

  • Bangladesh Premier League
  • Indian Premier League
  • Pakistan Super League
  • Caribbean Premier League
  • Big Bash League

You can get the app on iOS and Android to create accounts, handle money, use promo codes, and claim all bonuses on your phone. New users get a welcome bonus up to ₹8,440 that lasts 30 days.

Melbet's multi-view betting interface lets you watch HD streams with commentary in different languages. The platform has a Curaçao gaming license and accepts Indian players legally. You can pay using UPI, Paytm, NetBanking, PhonePe, or cryptocurrency.

Step-by-Step Guide to Placing Your First Bet

Ready to join millions of cricket fans who bet online? Here's a simple guide to place your first wager on cricket betting sites in India.

Create an account and verify it

You'll need to register with your chosen platform. The sign-up process takes 2-3 minutes and needs simple information like your name, email address, mobile number, and a secure password. Cricket betting sites in India offer several registration methods. Mobile number verification remains the most common choice.

Account security and fraud prevention make verification a vital step. The KYC (Know Your Customer) verification process requires these documents:

  • Proof of identity: Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or driver's license
  • Proof of address: Utility bill or bank statement (not older than 6 months)

Most platforms want document verification within 30 days of account creation and before your first withdrawal. The process usually takes 24-48 hours.

Deposit money using local methods

Your next step is adding funds to your account. India's top cricket online betting sites support various deposit options:

  1. UPI: This popular method follows 10 steps: log in, click deposit, select UPI, enter amount, choose between UPI ID or QR code, complete payment in your UPI app, copy UTR number, and paste it back on the betting site

  2. Additional methods: Paytm, PhonePe, NetBanking, debit/credit cards, and cryptocurrencies

The minimum deposit ranges from ₹80-500 based on the platform. Most sites process deposits right away without charging fees.

Choose a match and betting market

The sportsbook's cricket section displays your betting options. Here's what to do:

  1. Browse upcoming or live matches
  2. Select a specific event to see available betting markets
  3. Review the odds for each option

Cricket betting sites organize matches by tournament (IPL, World Cup, Big Bash) and format (T20, ODI, Test) to make selection easier.

Enter your stake and confirm the bet

Clicking on odds automatically shows your bet slip. Complete your wager with these steps:

  1. Enter your stake in the designated field
  2. Check the automatic calculation of potential payout
  3. Review your selection
  4. Click "Place Bet" or "Confirm" to finalize

Your bet becomes active after confirmation. Look for the stream icon on some platforms to watch matches live while tracking your bets.

Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid

Cricket betting trips up even the most seasoned punters. Here are four common mistakes you should avoid while using cricket betting sites in India.

Betting without research

Bettors often jump into wagers without a full picture of cricket rules, formats, and strategies. This rushed approach results in losses that could have been avoided with proper analysis of team makeup, player stats, and current form. Gut feelings and team loyalty lead to negative returns in the long run. A quick 15-20 minute review of recent team stats and head-to-head records can make all the difference.

Ignoring pitch and weather conditions

External factors shape cricket matches uniquely. Match outcomes swing dramatically based on pitch features and weather patterns. The 2025 England vs. India Test series showed teams bowling first won 83% of matches on cloudy days at Headingley. T20 night games see a 20% boost in swing bowling effectiveness due to high humidity.

Overbetting on favorites

Big bets on favorites with low odds (below 1.60) carry huge risks. A ₹10,000 bet at 1.60 odds brings only ₹6,000 profit while putting your entire stake on the line. Smart bettors look for odds between 1.85-1.90 to get better value.

Not understanding bonus terms

Bonus money slips away because players miss wagering requirements and deadlines. The key lies in checking minimum deposits, eligible bets, and maximum betting limits with every promotion.

Conclusion

Cricket betting has without doubt changed how millions of fans participate in their favorite sport across India. This piece explores everything a bettor should know before placing their first wager.

Licensed platforms with proper security measures are vital to ensure safe betting experiences. Legitimate operators use SSL encryption and strict data protection protocols to protect your personal information and money. User reviews help you learn about a site's reliability and customer service quality.

Your cricket knowledge becomes valuable when you understand the diverse betting markets available. Each option needs specific analytical approaches, whether you prefer simple match result bets or specialized markets like top batsman predictions and ball-by-ball wagering. To cite an instance, batsman performance bets need careful assessment of current form, pitch conditions, and batting position—these factors affect potential outcomes by a lot.

Success in betting depends on how well you interpret odds. A small difference between decimal odds of 1.85 versus 2.00 means a ₹150 difference on a ₹1000 stake. You can create long-term profit potential by spotting value opportunities where bookmakers underestimate actual chances.