Cricket is a game of momentum. A match shifts ball by ball, over by over. While predicting the final winner is exciting, sometimes the most profitable opportunities happen in the middle of the action. This is where session betting comes in.
Session betting is one of the most dynamic and fast-paced markets available on Fairplay. It breaks a cricket match down into smaller, manageable chunks—usually blocks of overs—allowing you to bet on the immediate flow of the game rather than waiting hours for the final result.
If you enjoy reading the game live and reacting to pitch conditions and player form, session betting is the perfect way to elevate your sports betting strategy. This guide explains exactly how session betting works on Fairplay and how you can use it to your advantage.
What is Session Betting?
In simple terms, session betting involves wagering on the number of runs scored during a specific period of the match. Unlike “Match Winner” bets where you back a team, here you are betting on a number.
The bookmaker or exchange sets a “line” or a predicted score for a specific set of overs. You have two options:
- YES (Over): You bet that the actual runs scored will be higher than the line.
- NO (Under): You bet that the actual runs scored will be lower than the line.
Common Sessions in Cricket
Different formats have different standard sessions, but in T20 cricket (like the IPL), the most common sessions are:
- 6 Overs (Powerplay): How many runs will be scored in the first 6 overs?
- 10 Overs: The score at the halfway mark of the innings.
- 15 Overs: The score entering the death overs.
- 20 Overs (Lambi): The final total score of the innings.
In Test cricket, a “session” literally refers to the play between breaks (Lunch, Tea, Stumps), typically around 30 overs.
How Session Betting Works on Fairplay
Fairplay operates as an exchange, which makes session betting more interactive than traditional sites. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how a typical session bet plays out.
The Scenario
Imagine a match between India and Australia. India is batting first.
- The Market: “6 Over Runs India”
- The Line: 48 – 50
On Fairplay, you will see two numbers displayed for the session.
- First Number (48): This is the “NO” or “NOT” line. If you bet on 48, you are betting that India will score 48 runs or fewer.
- Second Number (50): This is the “YES” line. If you bet on 50, you are betting that India will score 50 runs or more.
Placing the Bet
- You analyze the situation: You see that India’s openers are aggressive, and the pitch is flat (good for batting).
- You decide to go “YES”: You click on 50 and place a ₹1,000 bet.
- The Outcome:
- If India scores 52 runs, you win.
- If India scores 49 runs, you lose.
- If India scores exactly 50 runs, you win (because you bet on 50 or more).
The “Gap” or “Bracket”
Notice the gap between 48 and 50? This middle ground (49 runs) is where the bookmaker usually makes their edge in traditional betting. However, on Fairplay’s exchange platform, lines move rapidly based on real-time activity, giving you the chance to find better value.
Why is Session Betting So Popular?
Session betting has exploded in popularity among Indian bettors for several reasons.
1. Instant Gratification
You don’t have to wait 4 hours for the match to end. A 6-over session bet is settled in roughly 25 minutes. This allows for quick turnover of your bankroll. If you win, your Fairplay ID is credited immediately, allowing you to use those winnings for the next session.
2. Strategic Flexibility
Session betting allows you to profit even if your favorite team is losing.
- Example: You want India to win, but they have lost two early wickets. You know they will play defensively to rebuild. You can bet “NO” (Under) on the 10-over session. You profit from their slow scoring, even if they eventually go on to win the match.
3. Hedging Opportunities
Smart bettors use sessions to hedge risk. If you have backed a team to score a huge total (Lambi), but they start losing wickets, you can bet “NO” on the intermediate sessions (like 15 overs) to recover some potential losses.
Tips for Winning Session Bets
Success in session betting requires quick thinking and a solid understanding of cricket conditions. Here are expert strategies to help you make smarter decisions.
Check the Pitch Report
This is non-negotiable.
- Flat/Hard Pitch: Ball comes onto the bat nicely. Expect high scores. Lean towards “YES”.
- Green/Grass Pitch: Helps fast bowlers early on. Expect wickets and low scores in the first 6 overs. Lean towards “NO”.
- Dry/Dusty Pitch: Helps spinners in the middle overs (7-15). Scoring rates usually drop here.
Analyze the Batsmen
Know who is at the crease.
- Aggressors (e.g., Rohit Sharma, Travis Head): They attack regardless of the situation. They drive session scores up.
- Anchors (e.g., KL Rahul, Kane Williamson): They take time to settle. If two anchors are batting, the session score is likely to be lower.
Watch for the “Wicket Effect”
This is the golden rule of session betting: Wickets kill momentum.
If a wicket falls, the new batsman usually takes 5-10 balls to get their eye in. This naturally slows down the run rate.
- Strategy: If a wicket falls just before you plan to bet, the session line might drop. However, it is often safer to bet “NO” immediately after a wicket if the line hasn’t adjusted enough yet.
Monitor Field Restrictions
- Overs 1-6 (Powerplay): Only 2 fielders outside the circle. High scoring potential.
- Middle Overs: Field spreads out. Scoring usually relies on running ones and twos.
- Death Overs: Fielders are deep, but batsmen take maximum risks. High variance (either huge runs or lots of wickets).
Advantages of Session Betting on Fairplay
Choosing the right platform matters. Fairplay offers distinct advantages for session traders compared to standard bookmakers.
- Real-Time Line Updates: Our advanced technology ensures session lines update instantly ball-by-ball. You get the most accurate reflection of the game state.
- High Liquidity: Because you are betting on an exchange with thousands of other users, you can place larger bets without being limited by the house.
- Seamless Transactions: Whether you are depositing to catch the powerplay or withdrawing your session winnings, our trusted UPI integration ensures your money moves fast.
Responsible Gaming in Fast Markets
Because session betting is so fast-paced, it is easy to get carried away. It is vital to maintain discipline.
- Don’t Chase: If you lose a 6-over session bet, don’t blindly double your stake on the 10-over session to “win it back.” Analyze the game first.
- Set Limits: Decide how many sessions you will trade in a match.
- Know When to Stop: If you find yourself betting on every single ball or over, take a step back.
For tools to help you manage your betting activity, please visit our Responsible Gaming page.
Conclusion
Session betting transforms a cricket match into a series of exciting opportunities. It rewards those who understand the nuances of the game—the pitch, the players, and the pressure. By breaking the game down into sessions, you can find value that the broader “Match Winner” markets often hide.
Ready to test your cricket knowledge? Log in to your account, check the live Cricket Betting markets, and place your first session bet on Fairplay today.
