By Guest - Jul 10, 2025 07:52 PM
In India, betting on sports—especially cricket—is more than just entertainment. For many of us, it’s a way to stay connected with our favorite teams, test our instincts, and enjoy the thrill of live action. Over the past few years, online sports betting in India has gone mainstream, driven by smartphones, accessible platforms, and a growing appetite for global sports.
If you're exploring cricket betting or curious about wagering on other sports like football or tennis, this guide will help you get started safely and smartly.
Let’s be honest: a few years ago, placing a bet on a cricket match usually meant a shady middleman and zero guarantees. Today, things are different. The rise of regulated offshore sportsbooks has made betting not only more accessible but also more secure.
Many Indian bettors, including myself, now prefer licensed international platforms that accept Indian payment methods and offer competitive odds on both international and local matches. One of the most talked-about platforms in recent months? Leon Bet. But we’ll get to that in a bit.
India’s sporting culture is incredibly diverse, and that’s reflected in our betting preferences too. From international cricket tournaments to late-night European football, there’s always a match worth following—and maybe betting on.
Here’s a quick overview of the most popular sports Indian players bet on.
No surprises here—cricket betting leads the pack. From IPL thrillers to high-stakes international clashes, the betting markets are just as exciting as the matches themselves.
Thanks to features like live stats, real-time odds, and cash-out options, cricket betting is both dynamic and beginner-friendly.
While cricket dominates, football betting is quickly gaining ground—especially among fans of European and global leagues. The fast pace and variety of betting options make it ideal for players looking for more action.
Many fans also see football as a great entry point into the broader world of sports betting in India, since matches are frequent, the rules are easy to follow, and the betting markets are rich in variety.
From predicting the final score to betting on the next goal, football offers one of the richest betting ecosystems out there.
Tennis may not have the mass following of cricket or football, but it’s a favorite among strategic bettors. Why? Matches are quick, frequent, and easy to follow.
If you're someone who prefers shorter matches with clear outcomes, tennis betting might be your sweet spot.
Volleyball isn’t the first sport that comes to mind for betting, but it’s quietly gaining fans. The structure of volleyball—short sets, quick momentum shifts—makes it appealing for in-play bettors.
Even if you’re new to volleyball, the betting format is easy to grasp, and there’s often value in the odds.
Over the past year, I’ve tested more betting platforms than I can count. Some had great odds but clunky interfaces. Others looked good but didn’t support Indian payment systems. Then I came across Leon Bet, and it’s been my go-to ever since.
Here’s why Leon Bet stands out for me:
From registration to placing your first bet, the whole process is smooth. Whether you're on desktop or mobile, the interface just works.
Leon Bet supports UPI, Paytm, Google Pay, and even crypto—making transactions fast and hassle-free.
From IPL to international tests, the cricket betting markets are comprehensive. I particularly like their early odds and live betting features.
They currently offer a 100% first deposit bonus up to ₹10,000. Great way to start if you're new.
One of my favorite features. You can place bets as the action unfolds, and cash out early if you feel like locking in a profit.
Their 24/7 support team responds quickly, and yes—they speak Hindi and English.
Is online sports betting legal in India?▼
It depends on where you live. While there’s no national law explicitly banning online betting, regulations vary by state. Many Indian players safely use offshore betting sites like Leon Bet, which are licensed internationally.
Can I use UPI or Paytm for deposits?▼
Yes, most top betting platforms now accept popular Indian payment methods including UPI, Paytm, PhonePe, and NetBanking.
What’s the safest sport to start betting on?▼
Cricket is a great starting point—it’s familiar, has a ton of data, and many markets to choose from. Football and tennis are also beginner-friendly.
How do I know if a site is trustworthy?▼
Look for licensing (from Malta, Curacao, etc.), SSL encryption, and good reviews. Avoid platforms with vague terms or poor support.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. We do not promote, endorse, or encourage any form of illegal betting or gambling. Readers are advised to check the legal status of betting and gambling in their respective jurisdictions before engaging in any activities. It may be legal in certain regions, but it is the your responsibility to ensure compliance with local laws. We are not liable for any legal or financial consequences arising from the use of this information.
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