Cricket betting laws in India are confusing for many people. The Public Gambling Act, 1867, bans public and unregulated betting. For online cricket betting, people often consider it a gray area. Different states also made different rules.
In this guide, we explain the current status in 2026, penalties, the rationale for the ban, legal options such as fantasy cricket, and what may happen next.
Cricket Betting In India 2026: Is It Legal?
Cricket betting in India does not follow one simple rule. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 continues to target public gambling houses and local betting establishments. Many states still use it as the base law.
In 2026, online betting is no longer as “unclear” as it was earlier. In August 2025, Parliament passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The document states that it imposes a complete ban on “online money games” and treats betting and gambling as part of that risky space. It also allows blocking of such platforms and bars payment processing for them.
This increases the risk of online cricket betting nationwide, even if a site operates outside India.
Cricket Betting in India 2025
Prior to the 2025 law, many people described online cricket betting as a legal gray area. India lacked a single clear national law governing online sports betting. States treated gambling as a matter of state regulation, so rules varied widely.
Some states built their own frameworks. Sikkim introduced a licensing model for online games and sports gaming, with strict location limits through intranet play. (Government of Sikkim)
Nagaland established a licensing system for online games of skill and defines “gambling” differently from skill games. (India Code)
Other states took a stricter route. Tamil Nadu enacted a stringent law governing online real-money games, and courts have upheld the state’s authority to regulate such games. (SCC Online)
Punishment For Cricket Betting In India
Punishment depends on where the betting happens and how the police book the case.
Under the Public Gambling Act, 1867, penalties can include a fine up to Rs 200 and jail up to three months for gambling house-related offences.
Some states apply their own laws and impose stricter penalties. Many cases also involve organised networks, which trigger tougher sections.
In addition, the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, provides for strict penalties for offering or facilitating online money games. It provides for imprisonment for up to three years and fines of up to Rs 1 crore. Repeat offences can result in longer prison sentences and higher fines.
The Current Legal Status of Cricket Betting In India
As of 2026, cricket betting in India is governed by a mix of legacy gambling laws, state regulations, and recent central-level measures against online gambling.
Key points to understand:
- India still relies on the Public Gambling Act, 1867, to address many betting offences.
- Gambling remains a state subject, so states still enforce their own bans and controls.
- The 2025 Online Gaming law imposes a nationwide ban on online money games and clearly distinguishes safe online games from betting and gambling.
State approaches still differ:
- Sikkim runs a regulated system for online games and sports gaming with limits. (Government of Sikkim)
- Nagaland licenses online games of skill under its state framework. (India Code)
- Tamil Nadu follows a strict regulatory framework for online real-money games, and courts have upheld the state’s laws. (SCC Online)
- Telangana continues to treat online betting as illegal, and enforcement remains active. (The Times of India)
In 2018, the Law Commission recommended legalising and regulating betting through licensing and checks, but India did not adopt that approach at a national level. (PRS Legislative Research)
Many users still access offshore platforms, but the legal risk remains, and blocks can happen.
Because cricket betting laws vary by state and platform type, many users first seek a simple way to access markets. That is why an Online Betting ID is often the first search term before odds or deposits. Users should consult their state laws before placing any bet.
Why Is Cricket Betting Illegal In India?
Cricket betting remains restricted for several reasons.
- Historical context: India still leans on a colonial-era law from 1867.
- Social concerns: Many fear addiction, debt, and family harm.
- Match-fixing history: Past scandals have strengthened the link between betting and corruption.
- Outdated law: Old laws did not plan for apps, crypto, and offshore sites.
- State control: States set their own rules; therefore, India lacks a single approach.
- Moral concerns: Many communities oppose betting on ethical grounds.
- Regulatory challenge: Authorities have difficulty tracking offshore operators.
- Public protection: Policymakers often focus on shielding young users from harm.
The 2025 Online Gaming law also characterizes online money games as a major public-harm issue and supports strict controls.
Legal Betting Apps In India
Many apps get called “legal” in casual talk, but most cricket betting platforms used in India operate from outside India. They do not hold an Indian nationwide sportsbook licence. Laws and blocks can still apply, and payment rails can face restrictions.
Here are five popular platforms that Indian users often use:
1. 10CRIC
10CRIC targets cricket users and supports INR-focused features. It operates offshore.
Key features:
- Strong cricket coverage
- INR-friendly deposits
- India-focused payment options
2. Stake
Stake runs a crypto-first betting model and offers sports markets.
Key features:
- Crypto-based deposits
- Sports and casino markets
- Provably fair games
3. 1xBet
1xBet offers a large sportsbook and cricket markets. Mirror domains often appear after blocks. (The Times of India)
Key features:
- Large sportsbook range
- Live betting and streaming
- Many payment methods
4. BC.Game
BC. Game focuses on crypto casino-style play and also offers sports betting.
Key features:
- Crypto-focused platform
- Social style features
- Casino and sports coverage
5. Betway
Betway runs as an international brand with cricket options for Indian users.
Key features:
- Cricket-focused markets
- Simple user interface
- Regular promos and odds
Note: Many such apps are not available on Google Play or the App Store in India. Users often install APKs from websites, thereby increasing the risk. Blocks and domain changes also happen often. (The Times of India)
Will Cricket Betting Be Legal In India?
A full legal sportsbook system in India still faces hurdles, but debate continues.
Reasons people expect legalisation:
- Tax revenue potential
- Better control over illegal betting
- Consumer protection through rules
- Easier tracking of match-fixing patterns
- Global trend toward regulation
Reasons it may not happen soon:
- Strong social opposition
- Political risk for governments
- Hard regulatory setup across all states
- State vs centre coordination issues
The 2018 Law Commission advocated regulation through licensing rather than blanket bans. (PRS Legislative Research)
But the 2025 Online Gaming law shows a tougher national stance on online money games.
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Conclusion: Public Cricket Betting Is Illegal In India, While Laws Against Online Cricket Betting Remain Complex
Cricket betting in India remains restricted. Public and local betting establishments clearly violate the law in most jurisdictions. Online cricket betting also entails legal risk, and the 2025 Online Gaming law strengthens enforcement against online money games that include betting and gambling.
State laws remain significant, and enforcement varies by jurisdiction. Many users still access offshore platforms, but blocks and payment limits can apply.
