Cricket fans are getting ready for the IPL’s 18th edition, and betting activity is already heating up. The tournament is now the biggest event for IPL cricket betting. Even though Entain doesn’t operate in India, it still sees huge betting interest from countries like the UK, US, South Africa and Canada. All the data below refers to customers betting on the IPL from “regulated/regulating” markets.
IPL cricket betting accounts for nearly 25% of Entain’s global cricket wagers. Over 90% of those bets are placed in-play, usually after the first innings. Bettors tend to wait until they see how the match is unfolding before making their moves.
Big totals and high chases are where the action is. The average first innings score hit a record 191 in 2024. This shift in scoring patterns keeps fans engaged and fuels live betting.
The introduction of the Super Sub rule has lifted scoring potential by extending batting lineups. Teams have hit more than 200 runs more often in the last two seasons than the previous ten combined. This scoring surge has impacted IPL cricket betting markets significantly.
Entain’s data shows fans love betting on outcomes like match winners, next over runs, and team totals. Match betting made up 40.1% of all IPL bets in 2024, with player performance and short-term markets also popular.
Statistically, there’s no clear advantage to batting first or second—49% of wins in 2024 came from batting first. Home teams have a slight edge, winning 55% of games, up from 40% in 2023, as teams adjust strategies for home grounds.
“Generally, the two biggest factors for those looking to bet on cricket are: high run-scoring feats and record-breaking chases. The IPL delivers both of these in abundance.” Andrew Harriott, Group Head of Cricket Betting at Entain.
Stadium differences are a major factor in strategy and betting. Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium saw an average of 235 runs in the first innings, the highest in the tournament. Grounds like Hyderabad and Kolkata also saw consistent scores above 200.
Even though the game is dominated by batters, teams still value strong bowling attacks. Overseas fast bowlers were highly sought after at auction, often chosen before many local bowlers. This is reflected in their role in winning performances and bowling statistics.
Player performances shape betting trends too. Sunil Narine starred with bat and ball, while Virat Kohli topped the run charts with 741 runs. Harshal Patel led with 24 wickets, winning the Purple Hat for top wicket-taker.
Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, and Chennai Super Kings are early favourites for the title. Despite a high-scoring season, the Sunrisers fell short in the final after dominating the run charts with totals over 250.
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