Nagpur: In a thrilling T20 World Cup final, where billions were wagered in the betting market, frequent fluctuations kept bookies on edge until the last three balls. The outcome remained uncertain, leaving the betting industry in chaos. However, former Indian captain Virat Kohli played a crucial role in overturning the bookmakers’ predictions.
Renowned for its reliability, the Phalodi betting market in Rajasthan, along with markets in Indore and Nagpur, predicted an Indian victory, with India given a 70% chance and South Africa only 30%. Despite the bookmakers’ correct prediction of India’s win, the match was a nail-biter, with the winning odds shifting every over as the South African players batted. This unpredictability continued until the final three balls, resulting in heavy and confused betting activity.
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The bookmakers’ prediction of the game-changer also missed the mark. Despite Kohli’s previous underwhelming performances and Rohit Sharma’s form, bookmakers labeled Sharma as the ‘game-changer,’ attracting the highest bets. However, Kohli defied expectations with a stellar performance, outshining Sharma and catching the bookies off guard. His outstanding play not only secured the win for India but also reversed the bookies’ multibillion-dollar wagers.
Weather Plays a Role, But Bets Rain Down
According to forecasts, there was a 78% chance of rain in Barbados on June 29, with heavy clouds throughout the day, raising rain expectations to 87% before the match. The final, scheduled for June 30, also had a 61% chance of rain. Despite these forecasts, no rain fell during the match, leading to a downpour of bets in the market instead.
Ultimately, Virat Kohli’s remarkable performance not only secured India’s victory but also upended the bookies’ plans, making the match one of the most dramatic and financially impactful in recent memory.
