Let us take you through the most popular cricket tournaments globally and the opportunities they present for bettors
ICC Men's Cricket World Cup
The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup is the crown jewel of cricket tournaments. Held every 4 years since its inception in 1975, this ODI tournament has managed to retain its significance despite the growing popularity of other cricket formats in the 21st century. It hosts 10 teams in a round-robin and knockout format, promising high stakes and thrilling performances. The tournament attracts cricket fans all over the globe. Also, the sportsbooks which deal with cricket odds and statistics pay significant attention to the tournament, as it has proven itself to be particularly popular among sports bettors who want to take part in their own way by placing bets and testing how well they can predict match outcomes.
T20 World Cup
Established in 2007, the T20 World Cup quickly carved out its place among the most vital of tournaments in the world of cricket. The T20 format's boom in popularity has made this event an exciting spectacle where some of the best athletes of cricket around the globe perform.
The Australian Tri-Series
The Australian Tri-Series was a yearly competition that featured Australia and two other touring teams. Despite no longer being held, this tournament remains popular among cricket enthusiasts. All major cricketing nations, including India, Pakistan, and England, made appearances over the years, contributing to its prestige.
Ashes Series
The Ashes Series is the oldest tournament in the world, when it comes to cricket, tracing its roots back to the 19th century. The biennial best-of-5 Test series between Australia and England offers a month-long cricketing fest. The high-quality cricket played by two of the world's best teams makes the series extremely popular among punters and bookmakers.
ICC Champions Trophy
Founded as the ICC Knockout Tournament back in 1998, the ICC Champions Trophy has witnessed many transformations over the years. Despite being discontinued in 2017, the tournament was reinstated in 2021 and is said that it will return in 2025. Played in the ODI format, this tournament is held every four years and is another major attraction for cricket lovers worldwide.
Indian Premier League (IPL)
The IPL, which was established in 2008, is now one of the most popular cricket leagues globally. With viewers of around 400 million, it is one of the biggest and most loved sports competitions around the world. The IPL's annual tournament is a star-studded event featuring ten teams vying for the top prize, adding immense excitement and betting opportunities for cricket fans.
Champions League Twenty20
The Champions League Twenty20, which was a tournament that took place every year between the years 2008 and 2014 was a very loved tournament. Despite its short run, it made a significant impact in promoting T20 cricket. The tournament ended due to low viewership after some time but it is remembered for its intense competition among twelve teams from eight Test-playing nations.
NatWest Series
The NatWest Series was a series of ODI tournaments held in England until 2012. Despite its discontinuation, it remains etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts. The National Westminster Bank, the tournament's main sponsor, has been working to promote the T20 Blast Series.
Asia Cup
The Asia Cup, founded in 1984, is the only continental cricket tournament in the world. Its unique format alternates between T20 and ODI tournaments, offering diverse cricketing experiences. India has emerged as the most successful team in the tournament, winning it seven times.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Named after two legendary cricketers, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a Test cricket series held between Australia and India. Since its inception in 1996, India has been the most successful side, winning the series 10 times.
Final Thoughts
Cricket tournaments offer a rich tapestry of historical significance, sporting prowess, and thrilling betting opportunities. They stand as a testament to cricket's enduring appeal, uniting fans and players in a shared love of the sport. Whether you're a player, a fan, or a bettor, these tournaments are more than just games; they are a celebration of the sport that continues to captivate millions around the world.