Each way betting is a popular option among online sports bettors in India, especially for horse racing and cricket matches. But how does each way betting work? Simply put, it is a bet split into two parts: one part on a selection to win, and the other on the same selection to place.
When you place an each way bet, you are essentially making two bets of equal value. The first is for your chosen player or team to win the event, while the second is for them to finish within a certain place — usually top 2, 3, or 4 depending on the sport and bookmaker. This means you can still receive a return even if your bet does not win outright but finishes in a qualifying position.
For example, if you bet ₹500 each way on a cricket player to be top scorer at odds of 5/1, your total stake will be ₹1,000 (₹500 to win, ₹500 to place). If the player wins, both parts pay out, giving you a good return. But if they only finish in the designated place, you receive a smaller payout from the place bet, usually calculated at a fraction of the win odds such as 1/4 or 1/5.
Each way betting reduces risk and offers a chance to gain from strong performers who might not win outright. It's especially useful in unpredictable sports or large fields where winning is harder to predict. However, remember that your total stake doubles compared to a single bet, so you need to consider whether the place odds make the each way bet worthwhile.
Online Indian sportsbooks commonly offer each way betting on horse racing, cricket leagues, and other sports markets. Before placing your bet, always check the terms for how many places count and what fraction of the odds applies for the place part. Understanding these details helps you make informed decisions and enjoy betting responsibly.