Cricket embodies constant surprises through every match.
The underdog teams regularly defeat their expected superiors by outraging spectators with their unexpected victories and dramatic last-minute results.
The majority of fans enjoy watching intense matches yet astute bettors detect these moments as chances to win big.
Identifying potential underdog victories in advance allows you to convert minimal bets into substantial earnings.
Why Do Underdogs Win in Cricket?
Cricket demonstrates unpredictable outcomes because stronger teams do not guarantee victory in every match. Underdogs succeed against all expectations due to these specific reasons.
1. Pitch and Weather Conditions Favoring the Weaker Team
Cricket results heavily depend on the playing conditions of the pitch.
The combination of a green pitch creates conditions that transform ordinary bowling attacks into absolute terrors for elite batters.
Playing cricket in damp conditions generates risks for both batting and chasing as it creates unpredictable failures.
Example:
During the 2018 Test series when England faced defeat to West Indies because the pitch matched Windies’ fast bowling capabilities.
2. Big Teams Underestimating Opponents
Top teams usually make mistakes through excessive confidence by fielding multiple players while resting important players or showing insufficient commitment to the contest. The underdog team gets the opportunity to grab victory because of it.
3. Pressure on the Favorite Team
Heavy expectations can backfire. Underdogs make better choices during close matches because favorites suffer from intensified match pressure.
4. Game-Changing Individual Performances
One individual player possesses the power to transform the entire match. Unforeseen hundred runs from batsmen combined with quick wickets from bowlers can swiftly transform the entire match.
How to Bet on Underdog Wins and Maximize Your Winnings
If you know what to look for, you can spot profitable underdog bets before the market adjusts.
1. Use a Reliable Platform
A betting platform should offer:
- High odds on underdog bets
- Live betting features to adjust bets mid-game
- Cash-out options to lock in profits before the match ends
Mostbet is a top choice for finding great odds on unexpected match results. If you love betting on upsets, it’s a must-have platform.
2. Look for Weaknesses in the Favorite Team
Favorites don’t always dominate. Look for signs of struggle, such as:
- Key players missing due to injury or rest.
- Fatigue from too many matches in a short period.
- Poor record on specific pitches (e.g., India struggling in swinging conditions).
3. Bet on In-Game Momentum Shifts
Even if the underdog starts weak, momentum can shift fast. Here’s when to bet:
- After a key wicket falls – If the favorite loses its best batsman early, their odds drop instantly.
- When the underdog has a solid start – If an inexperienced team scores well in the powerplay, their confidence soars.
- During a rain delay – Weather interruptions often favor the chasing team due to revised targets under DLS rules.
4. Compare Pre-Match and Live Odds for Value Bets
Many bettors ignore how odds shift mid-game. Smart bettors find value by comparing pre-match odds to live odds.
Example:
| Match Situation | Pre-Match Odds for Underdog | Live Odds After a Good Start |
| Sri Lanka vs Australia | 4.50 | 2.80 (After Sri Lanka scores 50/0 in Powerplay) |
| Bangladesh vs England | 5.00 | 3.20 (After England loses 2 early wickets) |
If you predicted a close game, betting after a strong underdog start can lock in huge profits.
Biggest Underdog Wins in Cricket Betting History
Cricket has seen some of the biggest upset wins, and those who bet on underdogs have been rewarded.
1. Bangladesh Beats India in 2007 World Cup
- Pre-match odds: 9.00 for Bangladesh to win
- Result: Bangladesh won by 5 wickets
- Payout: A $100 bet on Bangladesh returned $900
2. Kenya Reaches 2003 World Cup Semi-Final
- Odds of making semi-final: 50.00* Result: Kenya beat teams like Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe to qualify
- Payout: A $10 bet turned into $500
3. Ireland Beats England in 2011 World Cup
- Pre-match odds: 11.00 for Ireland to win
- Result: Ireland chased 327 with 5 wickets left
- Payout: A $100 bet on Ireland returned $1,100
These are proof that betting on underdogs is high risk but high reward if done right.
Conclusion
Underdog wins happen more often than you think.
If you analyze the game, look at the conditions and time your bets well, you can turn small bets into big profits.
Betting platforms like Mostbet have great odds on cricket underdogs so it’s easier to capitalize on upsets.
So next time you see a lower ranked team playing against a top team, don’t ignore the possibility of an upset – it might just be your ticket to a big win.
