Cricket is considered a religion in India with millions of passionate fans across the country. Naturally, a massive illegal betting market has developed around the sport over the years. While traditional betting through local bookies and syndicates has thrived, better internet access has also enabled online cricket betting in India. Many enthusiastic Indian punters are now placing bets on their favourite matches via international online betting sites and apps. However, the legal status of online betting remains ambiguous in most states. In this article, we explore the best online cricket betting sites accessed by Indians, the complex legality of online betting, how punters can bet on live matches online and some essential responsible gambling tips they must follow. With competitive odds, privacy and convenience, online cricket betting offers Indian punters an enhanced experience. But proper precautions are necessary to ensure safe and legal participation on reputed sites.
The Popularity of Cricket Betting in India
Cricket is like a religion in India with millions of ardent fans following the game. Naturally, a huge betting market has developed around cricket in the country. Indians love to bet on popular tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL), ICC World Cup, Asia Cup as well as bilateral series involving the Indian cricket team. Bookmakers generate crores in revenue from cricket betting every year.
While offline betting through local bookies is rampant, better internet access has also led to the rise of online cricket betting. Many Indians are now placing bets through international online betting sites, apps, and software. Online betting offers punters better odds, accessibility, privacy, and a safer environment compared to traditional betting.
Best Online Cricket Betting Sites for Indians
There are dozens of online cricket betting sites Indians can access to bet on their favourite matches. Here are some of the most popular and recommended online betting sites for Indian punters:
Betway – Licensed in Malta, Betway offers competitive cricket odds, convenient payment options for Indians and a smooth mobile app.
Bet365 – Based in the UK, Bet365 is one of the largest online betting platforms with extensive cricket betting options.
1xBet – Licensed in Curacao, 1xBet has a wide range of cricket betting markets and welcome offers for Indian customers.
Parimatch – This international bookmaker offers enhanced cricket odds, convenient payment methods and 24/7 Indian customer support.
Dafabet – Popular in the Asian market, Dafabet offers competitive cricket odds, multiple bonuses and supports INR currency.
Skybetting – Skybetting is a popular online betting site that offers comprehensive cricket betting options for Indian customers. The site provides betting on all major international and domestic cricket tournaments as well as individual matches.
When choosing an online betting site, Indians must check for proper licensing, variety of cricket betting options, competitive odds, INR payments and reliable customer service.
The Legality of Online Betting in India
While cricket betting is very common in India, the legal status is quite complex. According to the Public Gambling Act of 1867, running a gambling house is illegal in India. However, there are no clear laws prohibiting Indians from placing bets online on sites operated from outside the country. Each state also has their own gambling legislations.
Sikkim and Nagaland are the only two states in India that have legalized online betting under license. Citizens here can legally access licensed local betting apps and sites. However, most punters in other parts of India place bets on international sites. While not prosecuted so far for online betting under foreign operators, the legal status still remains a grey area.
How to bet on today’s Cricket Match?
For Indians looking to do today cricket match betting, here is a simple guide:
Select a betting site that accepts Indian customers and has good cricket betting options. Avoid unknown offshore operators.
- Open an account by providing basic personal and contact details. Choose a username and strong password.
- Deposit money via UPI, Paytm, Net banking, Credit/Debit cards.
- Find today’s cricket match and click on the odds before the match to see all available betting markets – winner, top batsman, man of the match, total sixes, highest opening partnership etc.
- Choose a market, enter your stake, and place the bet. The bet will reflect in your account immediately.
- Once the match starts, watch live streaming if available or follow live scores.
- If your bet wins, the payout is credited to your account automatically. You can withdraw winnings via the same methods used to deposit funds.
Tips for Responsible Online Cricket Betting
While online cricket betting is exciting, punters must follow some basic tips for a safe and responsible experience:
- Set a budget for betting and never exceed it. Bet small amounts rather than large sums.
- Understand cricket betting markets and odds thoroughly before placing bets.
- Avoid risky bets on unknown events or teams to minimize losses.
- Do not bet while drunk or emotionally unstable. Make informed decisions.
- Never borrow money for betting. Use only spare cash you can afford to lose.
- Verify the legitimacy of all sites before registering and sharing bank details.
- Read terms and conditions of bonuses and offers carefully before opting for them.
- Never chase losses.
- Keep identities, account details and passwords safe and private.
- Contact customer support if unhappy with any service or offerings.
Conclusion
Online cricket betting can be an enjoyable activity for Indian punters if done legally and responsibly. While the legal status is still unclear, passionate fans can access regulated international betting sites to bet on live matches and popular cricket tournaments. However, enthusiasts must exercise caution and gamble small amounts after thorough research. Responsible gambling practices like setting a strict budget, understanding betting markets, avoiding risky bets, monitoring emotions, and keeping details private can make online betting fun without financial and legal consequences. Unregulated excessive betting can lead to addiction and losses. The online cricket betting experience can be made safe by sticking to licensed sites with good reputations and responsive customer support. While the convenience and accessibility of online cricket betting is attractive for Indian punters, they must comply with local laws, bet wisely, and seek help if showing signs of problem gambling. Moderation is key to enjoying cricket betting online.