How to Bet on Cricket at an Online Sportsbook

Cricket has quickly become a fan-favorite in the global sports betting community, capturing the attention of millions worldwide. With its deep history, strategic gameplay, and range of match formats, cricket offers a unique excitement that’s unlike other sports. From the fast-paced thrill of Twenty20 (T20) matches to the endurance-testing drama of Test cricket, each format provides its own betting opportunities, drawing in new fans and bettors alike.

In recent years, the rise of cricket leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL) has only fueled the sport’s popularity, especially in regions like South Asia, the UK, and Australia, where cricket is more than just a pastime—it’s a cultural cornerstone. This surge in popularity has made cricket one of the fastest-growing markets in sports betting, with bettors keen to dive into everything from simple match-winner wagers to more complex bets on runs, wickets, and player performances.

How Do Cricket Betting Odds Work?

Cricket betting odds work similarly to those in soccer, with odds representing the likelihood of a particular outcome and guiding how much a bettor can win. Just as in soccer, cricket odds are typically displayed in three formats: fractional, decimal, and moneyline, which reflect the potential payout based on the type of bet placed.

Match Odds (Moneyline Bets)

In both cricket and soccer, a common starting point is betting on the match outcome—either Team A wins, Team B wins, or, in some cases, a draw. For example, if England has odds of 1.80 to win against Australia, a $100 bet would yield an $80 profit if England wins. Similar to soccer’s moneyline bets, these straightforward bets are often favored by beginners for their simplicity.

Over/Under Betting (Totals)

Cricket and soccer share over/under betting options, but in cricket, these bets focus on the total number of runs scored. For example, if the over/under is set at 300 runs, bettors can wager on whether the total score will be above or below that. In soccer, over/under bets typically revolve around goals scored, but the principle remains the same: betting on whether the outcome exceeds or falls short of a set number.

Prop Bets

Both sports offer a variety of prop bets, allowing bets on specific events within the game. In cricket, prop bets may involve betting on the top run-scorer or how many wickets a bowler will take, much like betting on individual player performances in soccer.

The odds are calculated based on numerous factors, such as player form, weather conditions, historical team performance, and venue. Cricket betting odds often shift in real-time, especially in live betting scenarios, making it essential to stay informed. FuturePlay provides bettors with a live odds feature, so you can track changes and make decisions based on up-to-the-minute information.

How to Place a Cricket Bet on FuturePlay

Placing a cricket bet on FuturePlay is straightforward and designed to help you dive into the action with ease. Whether you’re a newcomer or an experienced bettor trying out a new platform, here’s a step-by-step guide to making your first cricket bet on FuturePlay:

Create an Account

To start betting on cricket with FuturePlay, you’ll need an account. If you’re new, simply create one by providing basic information on the FuturePlay website. Depending on your region, you may need to verify your age or complete additional steps to meet local regulations. For existing users, just log in and ensure your account is fully activated before you begin.

Make a Deposit

To place bets, make sure your FuturePlay account is funded. Head to the Deposit section to choose from a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, Euro, CAD, certain cryptocurrencies, and more. Don’t forget to check for available bonuses—FuturePlay often offers promotions like deposit matches or free bets, which can provide extra funds to enhance your betting experience.

Explore the Cricket Betting Section

• Find the Cricket Category: From the main menu, under “Top Sports,” navigate to the “Cricket” section. Here, you’ll find leagues, tournaments, and upcoming matches.
• Choose a League or Event: FuturePlay covers major leagues (such as the IPL, Big Bash League, and international tournaments) as well as smaller leagues, giving you a wide range of options. Click on a league to view upcoming games and available betting markets.

Select Your Betting Market

Browse Available Bet Types: Once in the game view, explore a variety of betting options, such as match winner, top run-scorer, total runs, and more.

Add Your Selection to the Bet Slip

• Make Your Selection: Click on the odds next to your desired outcome, and it will automatically appear in your bet slip, located on the side of the screen.
• Customize Your Bet Slip: You can adjust the bet type within the bet slip. For example, if you’d like to place multiple bets on one ticket, combine them into a parlay (accumulator) for a potentially larger payout.
• Enter Your Stake: Decide how much to wager and enter that amount into the bet slip. FuturePlay will display the potential payout based on the odds and your stake, so you know the possible return.

Place Your Bet

• Confirm the Bet: Double-check your selections and stake. When ready, finalize your bet.
• Get Confirmation: FuturePlay will provide a confirmation message, and you can view your bet in the “My Bets” section to track its progress and outcome.

Types of Cricket Bets

Cricket offers a rich variety of bets, catering to all types of bettors. Here are some popular cricket bets that FuturePlay offers:

• Match Winner: A straightforward bet predicting the winner of the match. This is a great entry point for beginners as it requires minimal understanding of complex strategies.
• Top Batsman/Bowler: Predict who will score the most runs or take the most wickets in a particular match or series. This bet requires some research into player form and recent performances.
• Total Runs (Over/Under): Bet on the total number of runs scored by a team, either above or below a specified threshold. Ideal for bettors who are good at assessing teams’ scoring potential based on conditions and form.
• Man of the Match: Bet on which player will be declared the Man of the Match. Typically, players with strong all-round performances (both batting and bowling) are more likely to win this award.
• Highest Opening Partnership: Predict which team’s opening batsmen will score the most runs before the first wicket falls. Analyzing player partnerships and previous opening records helps here.
• Runs in an Over: Wager on the number of runs scored during a specific over. This bet is especially popular for in-play betting and requires real-time assessment of the match’s current conditions.
• Outright Winner: Predict the winner of a tournament or series. Outright betting is ideal for major tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup or IPL, where teams play multiple matches over several weeks.
• Draw No Bet: If a match ends in a draw, the bettor’s stake is refunded. This is popular in Test matches where the likelihood of a draw is higher.

FuturePlay’s extensive betting options cater to a variety of strategies and allow bettors to experiment with different types, making it an exciting platform for both novice and experienced bettors.

Similarities and Differences Between Soccer and Cricket Betting

Cricket and soccer betting share several similarities, especially in the basic structure of bets and odds, but they also feature distinct elements that reflect each sport’s unique pace and scoring style.

Similarities

1. Bet Types: Both cricket and soccer offer popular bet types like moneyline bets (betting on which team will win), over/under (totals), and prop bets, where bettors can wager on specific outcomes within a game. For instance, both sports allow bets on individual player performances, such as top run-scorer in cricket or top goal-scorer in soccer.
2. Parlay/Accumulator Bets: In both sports, bettors can combine multiple wagers into a parlay (or accumulator) to increase potential payouts. For example, you could bet on multiple cricket match outcomes in a series or select several soccer match winners in a single ticket.
3. In-Play/Live Betting: Live betting is popular in both cricket and soccer, allowing bettors to place wagers as the game unfolds. In cricket, this could mean betting on the outcome of the next over or predicting the number of runs in a specific period, while in soccer, bettors might place wagers on the next goal scorer or the score at halftime.

Differences

1. Game Duration: Cricket games, especially Test matches, can last multiple days, making long-term bets on outcomes more common. Soccer, on the other hand, typically runs for 90 minutes, with outcomes resolved within a single match. This difference affects betting timelines and the kinds of markets available, with cricket offering options like series winner bets and bets on total runs over several days.
2. Scoring Systems: Cricket’s high-scoring nature creates unique betting opportunities, such as betting on total runs in an innings or specific players’ run counts. Soccer’s low-scoring outcomes make betting on goals, including totals and exact scores, much more common.
3. Draw Options: In cricket, draws are a more regular outcome in certain formats, especially Test cricket, leading to specific betting markets for a “draw” outcome. In soccer, while draws can occur, they’re less common in major tournaments where extra time and penalty shootouts decide a winner.

While cricket and soccer betting share fundamental similarities in betting structure and terminology, each sport’s unique characteristics lead to distinct betting experiences. Understanding these nuances can make betting on both sports more engaging and help bettors select markets that best suit their preferences.

Are There Proven Cricket Betting Strategies?

While there’s no foolproof way to win consistently in cricket betting, certain strategies can help improve your chances:

• Understand Match Formats: Cricket has three main formats—Test, One Day International (ODI), and T20—which affect the pace and outcomes of matches. Test matches are slower and favor consistency, while T20 requires aggressive gameplay. Tailor your strategy to each format to increase your success rate.
• Analyze Team and Player Form: Teams and players go through form cycles, with performance often influenced by factors like injuries, travel fatigue, or recent matchups. Research current form, head-to-head records, and recent statistics to make more accurate predictions.
• Consider Weather and Pitch Conditions: Weather affects cricket significantly, with overcast conditions favoring bowlers and sunny weather often benefiting batsmen. Similarly, pitches vary between countries, with some favoring spin and others pace. Research weather forecasts and pitch conditions before betting.
• Specialize in Specific Bets: Rather than spreading yourself across all betting types, focus on a few you understand well. Specializing in player performance bets or match-winner bets can improve your accuracy over time.
• Focus on Value Bets: Rather than betting only on favorites, look for value bets where the odds may not reflect the true probability. Value betting requires analysis and patience but can lead to consistent profits.
• Experiment with In-Play Betting: Cricket’s slow pace allows you to follow match developments in real time. In-play betting lets you make wagers based on current match conditions, like a bowler’s form or a batsman’s performance.
• Diversify Your Bets Across Different Markets: Don’t rely on just one type of bet. Spread your bets across various markets like top batsman, match winner, or highest opening partnership to reduce risk.
• Practice Bankroll Management: Never wager more than you’re willing to lose. Effective bankroll management helps minimize losses and sustain long-term betting success. Allocate a percentage of your bankroll per match and avoid chasing losses.

Applying these strategies with careful analysis can greatly improve your chances of making profitable bets. FuturePlay provides detailed match previews, player stats, and expert insights to support your decision-making process.

Best Cricket Events to Bet on

Certain cricket events attract top talent, significant viewership, and more favorable odds, making them ideal for betting. Here’s a list of events FuturePlay covers, offering great opportunities for betting:

• ICC Cricket World Cup: This prestigious tournament occurs every four years and brings together the best cricketing nations. The matches are highly competitive, and bets like match-winner, top scorer, and outright winner are popular.
• Indian Premier League (IPL): A high-energy T20 league, the IPL features international stars and intense matchups. The fast pace of T20 makes it ideal for in-play betting, with bets like total runs, individual performances, and the highest opening partnership.
• Ashes Series: Played between England and Australia, the Ashes is a historic five-Test series. Known for fierce competition, this series is perfect for bets on match-winner, player performance, and even draws due to the longer format.
• Big Bash League (BBL): Australia’s T20 league is known for close matches and explosive performances. The BBL’s format makes it ideal for bets on over/under scores, top batsman, and team performances.
• Pakistan Super League (PSL): This fast-growing T20 league showcases local and international players, providing various betting opportunities. PSL games are often high-scoring, so bets on total runs, player performances, and in-play options can be profitable.

Conclusion

Betting on cricket at an online sportsbook provides an exciting way to engage with the sport’s unique mix of strategy and intensity. With the rise of leagues like the IPL and global tournaments such as the Cricket World Cup, cricket betting continues to expand in popularity and variety. From choosing your betting markets to experimenting with strategies, online platforms like FuturePlay make it accessible for fans to explore everything cricket has to offer. By staying informed and applying smart betting practices, you can add another level of excitement to each match and enhance your overall experience with the sport. Whether you’re a fan of fast-paced T20 action or the tactical depth of Test matches, there’s always something new to discover in cricket betting.