Pak out, India lead odds in cricket showdown

Ahmedabad Cover Story

Pak out, India lead odds in cricket showdown

Bookies favor India as top contender in ODI 2023

With Pakistan out of the game in the ODI 2023, all eyes are on Team India. They’re now the top pick to clinch their third title, say those in the know from the betting circles. India’s at the forefront with odds of Re 1. Trailing are the Australians, the South Africans, and the New Zealanders, with Rs 3.50, Rs 4, and Rs 8 respectively. But these odds could change post-semifinals.

Semifinal showdown
Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium gears up for the India vs. New Zealand clash on November 15. The following day, Eden Gardens in Kolkata will host South Africa and Australia. The winners from these matches will head to the grand finale at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on November 19.

Security on high alert
If India beats New Zealand in the semis, expect a packed house at Narendra Modi Stadium. Officials aren’t taking any chances with security. Teams from both central and state agencies are in Ahmedabad, fine-tuning their plans to keep everyone safe.

Betting bonanza
Sources close to the betting world suggest record-breaking betting amounts this year. Die-hard fans and professional punters alike are laying their bets. Some are playing it safe, betting on India for both the semi-final and final. Others are chasing the big payoff, betting against the odds.

Underworld connection
The betting world is buzzing with the arrival of a bookie known as “Jay Bhole”. With his associate in Dubai, they’re managing the bets. The exit of Pakistan from the tournament has shaken up the betting landscape, possibly impacting the overall stakes.

Cops in action
Meanwhile, the police are on high alert. They’re scouring the internet and social media to track bookies’ movements. “We have formed special squads to get human intelligence on bookies also,” a top police official said. It’s a full-blown operation to keep the betting world in check and ensure fair play.