Getting these two core concepts clear before diving into match odds makes betting a lot easier.
- 1. Pre-Match Odds vs. Live Odds
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Pre-match odds are the numbers published before a match begins and generally stay fixed. Live or in-play odds are fluid numbers that shift throughout the match, updating with every wicket, goal, or change in momentum.
Example: Bangladesh may be priced at 1.70 before the match, but after two wickets fall in three overs, those odds could shift out to 2.30.
- 2. Handicap Markets
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In handicap markets, the weaker side is given a virtual advantage to bring both teams' odds closer together. This is most commonly used in football and cricket.
Example: If Team A is given a -1.5 goal handicap, they must win by at least 2 goals for the bet to pay out.