Cricket guides in plain language

Short, honest explainers on how cricket formats, odds and accounts work, so you can make informed choices and stay in control.

All guides

Each guide covers one topic and tells you what to check before you act. [Create each linked page before publishing, and add real author names and dates.]

Cricket formats explained

How Test, ODI and T20 matches differ in length, pace and what that means for how a match can swing.

Basics

How odds work

Reading decimal odds, working out returns and understanding the margin built into prices.

Basics

Quick read: what decimal odds mean

Decimal odds show your total return for every 1 unit you stake, including the stake itself. Divide 1 by the odds to see the chance the price implies.

Examples of decimal odds, returns and implied chance for a 100 stake
Decimal oddsTotal return on 100ProfitImplied chance
1.5015050about 67%
2.0020010050%
2.5025015040%
5.0050040020%

Keep in mind: operators build a margin into prices, so the implied chances across all outcomes add up to more than 100%. That margin is why betting loses money for most people over time. Read the full guide on how odds work.

Before you play

Only play with money you can afford to lose, set limits first, and never chase losses. No guide can predict a result, and nobody can promise you a win. If play is causing stress or money worries, contact support for a break or self-exclusion, and read our Responsible Gaming policy.

Common questions

What do decimal odds of 2.50 mean?

Decimal odds show the total return for each unit staked, including your stake. At 2.50, a 100 stake returns 250 if it wins, which is a profit of 150. The odds imply roughly a 40 percent chance (1 divided by 2.50).

Can anyone guarantee a winning bet?

No. Sporting results are uncertain and operators build a margin into their odds. Anyone promising guaranteed wins or fixed matches should be treated with caution.

How much should I set aside to play?

Only an amount you can afford to lose without affecting rent, food, bills or savings. Decide it before you start and use deposit limits to stick to it.