The overall New Jersey gaming income from racetracks and casinos reached $404.1 million in December, according to figures from the NJ Office of the Attorney General.
It was a considerable increase from December 2020's $312.9 million. Despite the 29.1% increase, the state's casino income is likely to continue to rise. Internet gambling income increased 33.9% from December 2020 to December 2021.
Many land-based casinos closed their doors as a result of COVID shutdowns. In all corners of the world, online gaming reached an all-time high. New Jersey was the same story. As consumers continue to bet from their home or work computers and mobile devices, it has continually surpassed its previous record of years filled with inconsistencies.
New Jersey was and still is a trailblazer in the gaming industry. In 2018, it made sports and internet betting legal. According to the useful source at iGamingNJ, the state’s economy has profited from the tax revenue since then. The same goes for Michigan, as the state has been setting records and making news for quite some time by now.
Since then, several other states have followed suit and legalized sports and internet betting. The United States is rapidly catching up to European and Asian countries. And the industry is bustling, you can keep up with all of the main developments of online gaming in the state of Michigan by visiting iGaming Michigan, the most reliable source of information when it comes to the gambling industry in the state of Great Lakes.
New Jersey vs Michigan: who really won?
If you are looking for a month-by-month comparison, there is no real point to it, as New Jersey won every single month, but the total difference in revenue between the two states isn’t that big, MI is ahead in terms of growth.
According to revenue figures given by the NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement and the Michigan Gaming Control Board, iGaming establishments in New Jersey made $1.337 billion in revenue during the calendar year of 2021, compared to $1.003 billion in revenue from online casinos in Michigan.
While New Jersey came out on top, Michigan's casino gaming income was impressive given that they just opened their doors in late January 2021, compared to New Jersey, which has been going strong since November 2013. When comparing first-year revenues, Michigan's growth trajectory is much ahead of New Jersey's, indicating enormous potential in the years ahead.
Michigan is the third state to legalize not just online sports betting but also casino gambling from the comfort of one’s home, after New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Last year proved to be a significant year for the US online gambling business, thanks to the successful debut of Michigan in 2021.
DraftKings, Fanduel, Golden Nugget, and BetMGM have dominated revenues when it comes to online gaming in both New Jersey and Michigan. These four brands are the most prevalent gambling operators in the US, producing the lion's share of revenues in both online casinos and sports betting across all legal states.
Sports betting odds have a complete history of their own.
Key Points
– Sports betting odds have been expressed differently throughout history.
– Different areas of the world – like American odds in the U.S. – prefer sports betting odds expressed in different formats.
The History of Sports Betting Odds
It’s not the world’s oldest profession, but gambling on sports has been around for a very long time.
For most of history, betting on sporting events, especially in the U.S. was not legal. It was thought that gambling on such events would ruin the competitive nature of the sport.
Fast forward and we see now that the global sports market and the worldwide sports betting markets coexist without much conflict at all.
How did it all start? Here’s a look at the history of sports betting odds.
Got Started With Horse Racing
It all started with horses. More specifically, it was likely bets on chariot races in the old Roman Empire that started it all. Wagers on Roman gladiator fights were probably involved too.
Betting on horse racing began in Europe somewhere in the 17th century. It made its way to America in the 18th century and still thrives today. Horse racing’s Triple Crown – Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes – brings in hundreds of millions of dollars in bets.
To this day, horse racing still favors using fractional odds. Fractional odds like 4/1 quote the net total that is paid out to a winning bettor relative to the stake.
For example, the 4/1 odds above indicate that if a bettor wagers $100 he will win $400. The winner also receives his stake back, so in this case the bettor wins $400 plus his $100 stake for a total of $500.
Decimal Odds
Decimal odds are favored in Europe, Australia, and a few other countries. These odds show the ratio of the payout amount relative to the stake and include the stake.
Decimal odds then are equal to the decimal value of the fractional odds plus one. Using the example above, the fractional odds of 4/1 are equal to decimal odds of 5.00
Sports Betting Odds – American Odds
Also known as moneyline odds, American odds are, as the name states, preferred by U.S. bookmakers. They are the ones North American bettors see when looking at sports odds and scores.
Moneyline odds are expressed as positive and negative numbers. The favorite is given a negative number, which shows that an outcome is more likely to happen. These odds are also expressed in terms of how much must be wagered to win $100.
If a favorite was given -400 odds (the equivalent of ¼ fractional odds), a bettor must wager $400 to win $100.
Underdogs are expressed with positive odds. From the above example, +400 odds are the equivalent of 4/1 fractional odds. A wager of $100 will pay out $400.
These moneyline odds became more popular as betting moved from horse racing into other major sports like football and basketball.
Depending upon where you are in the world today, you will see sports betting odds in one of these formats.
Are you a major sports fan and want to find a new sport to follow? Do you want to know the most elite sports in the world?
While some sports are all about getting down and dirty, others are about dressing up and participating in a high-class event. These are the elite sports. Some sports are considered elite and luxurious, not necessarily because of the sport itself, but more because of the events surrounding the sports. These events are typically more high-class and focus on more elements than just the game itself.
If you want to know more about the most elite sports globally, continue reading on.
Horse Racing
The first sport on our list is horse racing. While many sports worldwide emphasize being elite and higher class, there is no doubt that horse racing is right at the top. When one thinks about horse racing events, one thinks of people dressing up in their best daytime formal outfits, sipping expensive drinks, and making major bets on the racing events.
Above and beyond just the event side of things, horse racing is one of the most expensive sports in the world. It is costly just to own a horse and even more expensive to enter these elite and top competitions or events. Horse betting is a big thing, and today, you can find numerous betting sites online and reviews on various offers and different ways to bet. There are many reasons as to why this is considered an elite sport, but the biggest reason is purely because of how it costs overall.
Formula 1
The next elite sport on our list is Formula One, Formula 1, or simply F1. This is a sport that is less physically exerting yet still incredibly exhilarating. F1 is a motorsport that focuses on speed and who is the fastest to complete their laps around the track. Many expenses come with F1 racing, and it’s not just about having the car itself.
Of course, the car alone has to be decked out with the best tires, fastest engine, and most streamlined frame. However, many other expenses such as travel fees, entry fees, and even paying for your entire team are in play. Even if you have a relatively small team, it can quickly get very expensive. F1 drivers often have different sponsors to cover these crazy expenses, and in some cases, sponsorship is a requirement to enter the event itself.
Golf
Moving on down our list, the next elite sport that we will take a look at is golf. While it may be easy enough to grab a set of cheaper golf clubs, golf is considered to be one of the most elite and expensive sports in the whole world.
Many people typically enjoy golf recreationally as a nice way to spend their Sundays or a good mid-week break, but these people usually have a good chunk of change in their pocket. Whether playing professionally or recreationally, it can get costly, especially when paying for club memberships and fees. When playing professionally, you also need to factor in your typically expensive equipment and caddy fees.
Cricket
Next up, we have cricket. Cricket is known to be the second most popular sport in the world, only following football or soccer. It is one of the most famously played games in the UK, but is also incredibly popular globally.
With that said, it also happens to be one of the most elite sports in the world. Cricket events can last for days or even weeks at a time, and they are often considered quite prestigious events to attend. It is also a relatively expensive sport, especially when played professionally, because of the equipment needed.
Tennis
Tennis is something that every child plays at school, but not many people tend to carry on later in life. However, it can get quite elite or rather expensive for those who find a love for the sport. When one thinks about the different tennis events, the mind immediately goes to things like Wimbledon and other similar events. These events are what make tennis such an elite sport. People typically get dressed up very nicely for these events, and in some cases, even royal families attend.
Sailing
Last but not least, we have sailing, which is a no-brainer for elite sports. This is a costly sport, mainly because you need to have a boat. Whether it is a big yacht or a smaller dingy, it is all expensive and not necessarily something your average Joe could afford.
Roulette is called the queen of casinos – it is popular among customers of land-based and online establishments around the world. There are several dozen strategies that experienced players use to increase their chances of winning. In this article, we offer to get acquainted with the most effective among these techniques, as well as use some tips to increase your chances. Let’s start!
Why is online roulette so popular today?
Most online games, such as roulette, are designed to closely resemble the real alternatives. In almost all online casinos, the game is accompanied by appropriate sound effects, and there is always musical accompaniment. Thanks to clear graphics and bright colors, the client does not strain his eyesight. That provides maximum comfort during the game. Still, many beginners, having decided to try their luck at ZodiacCasino, often ask “Why is online roulette so popular?” Indeed, there are a lot of advantages to this type of game, and the main ones are:
● Availability. You can play roulette at any time, for this, you do not need to postpone business, reschedule a meeting or spend time on the road to a land-based club, which for various reasons may be closed. All you need to do is to choose an online casino, launch the roulette and play around the clock;
● Maximum comfort. Unlike real establishments, where a dress code system mainly operates, online casino games do not require a certain style of clothing. You can play anywhere and stay relaxed;
● Test mode. Virtual establishments offer their customers to play without real bets (thus, a visitor to an online casino can ensure that this game and this online platform suit him in all respects).
Now, let’s pay a bit more attention to the rules and effective strategies.
How to play roulette?
The usual format of roulette has been existing for over 200 years, its rules are not very complicated, and even a beginner can win a considerable amount. To do this, you need to guess the number that will fall on the wheel with numbers during its rotation. The winning sector is determined by a ball that can stop anywhere. In online casinos, the game starts with the work of an algorithm, while in a live format and land-based establishments – this is the croupier who throws the ball.
The main varieties of the game are European (classic) and American roulette. In the first case, the wheel is divided into 37 sectors numbered from 0 to 36. The second version includes 38 sectors with numbers from 0 to 36, as well as an additional 00. Sectors are painted in red and black, and green (zero).
French roulette is also very popular, the rules of which are almost the same as the rules of the European alternative. However, it has two additional moments:
● When the ball falls to zero, the casino returns to the customer half of the amount bet on equal odds;
● Zero in the case of bets on red and black, large and small numbers, even and odd sectors does not mean loss. Money is “frozen” until another spin – if it brings good luck to the player, he will get it back.
Due to these differences, the advantage of the casino in French roulette is very small, which gives more chances to win. The house edge for European roulette is 2.7%, French – 1.35%, and American – 5.26%. This does not mean that the third option is not worth considering: many people prefer it because of the acute feeling of excitement during the game.
You can bet on one or six numbers, on red or black, even on zero. The final reward will directly depend on it. Thus, direct bets on one number give a prize that is 35 times higher than the initial amount. Even and odd numbers result in only 1 to 1, because the chances of losing are the same.
Top-7 strategies for roulette
Winning roulette usually depends on mathematical calculations and luck. Experienced users use special strategies that help increase the chances of success and guess numbers more often than usual. Consider some proven strategies for playing roulette from the below-mentioned:
1) Martingale system
This is a system for betting on equal odds, i.e., even or odd, red or black, etc. The game starts with the minimum bet, in case of failure it must be doubled to try to recoup the money spent. If you are lucky enough to guess, then during the next round you should start with the smallest amount. Experienced players also use the reverse strategy, increasing the stakes after winning and decreasing them in case of failure. Let’s consider the following example:
Let's say you spend $1 and assume that the red sector will fall. If you win, then you bet $1 again. In case of failure, the amount should be doubled – it will be equal to $2. Repeated loss leads to a doubling of the bet, i.e., to $4 and further according to the scheme (4-8-16-32).
Advantages: this is a simple and clear system with low risks.
Disadvantages: Zero reduces the probability of success if the rates increase exponentially, and the net gain remains minimal. The limits imposed by the casino will not allow you to constantly increase the rate.
2) D'Alembert's system
The strategy is based on some elements of the Martingale method. In the case of winning, the bet here decreases, and in the case of loss, it increases by the amount of the down payment. The starting bet must be determined independently, the system is used during the game with equal chances. Here is an example:
If the starting amount is $10, then in case of failure you need to increase it to $20, in case of the second loss – up to $30, and so on. In case of victory, the next bet is reduced by $10, in case of the second win in a row – another $10.
Advantages: a simple strategy, which provides a high probability of winning back.
Disadvantages: in case of a long series of failures, there is a high chance of losing the whole bankroll quickly.
3) Biarritz system (Makarov)
This is a simple and aggressive system, in the use of which the bet is made on the same number 36 times in a row or until win. In this case, there are three options for the result: a quick victory and profit, a successful result on the last bet, and a return of money, or loss (lucky number never fell). For instance:
You bet $1 on a certain number, in case of failure you repeat your actions with the same amount 35 more times. If the desired number falls at least on the last attempt, you will get $36 back.
Advantages: the probability of winning exceeds 50%;
Disadvantages: high risks.
4) Oscar Grind
This is a progressive system that works on the principle of increasing and decreasing bets depending on the outcome of the game at 50/50 odds. After the victory, you need to raise the bet by one unit, and in case of failure – not change the amount. It is recommended to play up to eight rounds in a row, then start again. For instance:
If the first bet is $10, then in case of loss it remains the same. In case of success, it increases to $20, in case of the second victory in a row – up to $30, and so on.
Advantages: a clear and stable strategy that can be used even by beginners;
Disadvantages: it is difficult to win a large sum.
5) Cuban system
This strategy is based on the principle of uneven distribution of black and red sectors on the playing field. To increase their chances of success, the user must place two identical bets on either the black color and the first row, or the red color and the second column. So he will cover two-thirds of the field with only two chips. Here is an example:
You can bet one on the second row and one on the red. The winning combinations will be black in the second column and red in the second row. In the case of red in the first and third columns, you will return the money, the loss is claimed in the case of zero or black from the first and third rows.
Advantages: the probability of winning exceeds 50%.
Disadvantages: not intended for a short game, significantly reduces the chances of American roulette.
6) Labouchère system
It belongs to the strategies of arithmetic progression. Its essence is that the player must come up with a series of consecutive or arbitrary numbers – the equivalent of chips or money that he is willing to spend. Each bet will be equal to the sum of the last numbers, which are excluded in case of a win. In case of failure, a number equal to the lost bet is added at the end of the number’s line. Example:
If your numbers are 2-4-1-1-8-3-7, the first bet will be $9 (7 + 2). If the result is successful, the numbers 2 and 7 are crossed out, the next ones are 4 and 3 ($7 bet).
Advantages: simple and reliable system for beginners.
Disadvantages: in case of a series of failures, you are likely to lose your bankroll quickly.
7) Fibonacci strategy
This is a progressive system for playing with equal chances, based on the famous Fibonacci sequence (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, etc.), where each digit is the sum of the previous two. In case of failure, the next bet is increased by one number. If successful, you need to take two steps back. For example:
Losing $1 for the first time does not increase the amount. Repeated failure raises the bid to $2, the next two to $3 and $5, respectively. If you win for the sixth time when the amount reaches $8, the next bet will be $3.
Advantages: the positive result at minimum rates.
Disadvantages: slow progression, small gains.
Roulette tips and tricks
Want to break the bank? In this section, you will find some useful tips and tricks for playing roulette. We will teach you how to analyze data to make one successful bet:
1) Take notes: one of the main advantages of playing in an online casino is that you can take any notes. So keep a pen and notepad nearby while you play. This method works well when using the roulette Chaos strategy, which has been scientifically proven to help players increase their chances of winning.
2) Keep discipline: another important roulette tip that many players miss is to stick to your plan. If you play with a certain strategy, at some point you may want to change tactics when luck is not on your side. In the end, most likely, this will lead to the fact that you will lose even more than if you had followed the plan.
3) Set realistic goals: remember that the casino always has an advantage over the player, and roulette is no exception. But that doesn’t mean you can’t beat the house! Always keep in mind that your chances of losing are higher than winning. This allows you to enjoy the game and not be disappointed every time you lose. But when you win, the taste of victory will be much sweeter.
How to choose roulette strategies?
It is important to remember that no system gives a 100% guarantee of winning roulette. Do not believe the promises of fraudsters who offer to buy the perfect strategy for money. If such methods of play existed, most casinos would simply go bankrupt. When selecting a method, pay attention to its shortcomings and weaknesses, and try it in practice with minimal amounts. It is critical to remember that you can win using strategies, but not always. Proven techniques help players systematize bets, follow rules and manage capital wisely.
What strategy of the above-mentioned would you like to try? Share with us in the comments.
How the game unfolds is almost as important as the final result for many NFL fans. This is especially true for betting on NFL games, which have point spreads like +7 and -7 associated with them. For example, if the Washington Commanders are assigned a +7 spread against the Dallas Cowboys, this means that the oddsmakers believe Washington is most likely to lose to Dallas by seven points.
Underdogs And Favorites
Any time there is a “-“ minus sign in front of a team’s point spread, it means they are favored to win. When a team’s point spread odds are denoted with a “+” plus sign, it signifies they are the underdog and are expected to lose the game. Home teams are historically most often favored, but this can vary based on matchup.
Let’s say this is the betting line for an upcoming Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers matchup: Chiefs(-3)(-110), Chargers(+3)(+110). Three points favor Kansas City against Los Angeles in plain language. In order for wagerers to win a bet on the Chiefs in this setup, Kansas City must beat Los Angeles by more than three points. Anyone who bets on the Chargers in this contest will need Los Angeles to lose by two points or less or win the game by any margin.
It is called a “cover” when a team does what they are supposed to do concerning the spread designated before the game; it is called a “cover.” If Kansas City Chiefs beats Los Angeles 27-20, they won the game by seven points(more than three) and covered the spread. If Kansas City beats Los Angeles 31-30, then Los Angeles covered the spread(lost by two or less), even though they lost the game.
In the case where a final score ends up being the exact amount of the spread, it is called a “push,” and bettors from both sides get their money back. For example, this would happen if Kansas City beat Los Angeles 17-14.
What about the numbers next to the points? +110 and -110 indicate how much money a bettor stands to win or lose. If a team is slotted in at -110, a bettor would need to bet $110 to win $100. If an underdog is locked in at +110, this means that a better would win $110 if they wagered $100.
Half Points
Sometimes, point spreads include half points, adding another layer of strategy to betting. For example, the line might read: Seattle Seahawks(+7.5)(+210) at Arizona Cardinals(-7.5)(-210). 7.5 points favor the Cardinals, but NFL scoring does not award half a point in any circumstance. This means that Arizona must win by 8 points or more in order to cover the spread and that Seattle must either win or lose by 7 or fewer points to hold up their end of the bargain.
Line Changes
The point spread before a game can change depending on news that affects the competitive balance of the matchup. The Buffalo Bills start as 13-point favorites against the New York Jets, but Pro Bowl quarterback Josh Allen hurt his shoulder in practice and is ruled out. Oddsmakers are likely to reduce that spread because the teams would be more evenly matched in Allen’s absence.
A line may also change depending on betting trends for that matchup. If most bettors are wagering on Buffalo to cover the 13-point spread with a healthy Josh Allen, oddsmakers might bump the line up to 16 points to motivate bets on the Jets to cover to even things out.
PlayAmo is one of the most incredible online casino platforms available today. Moreover, they provide the most comprehensive casino gambling tools and offer the best winning opportunities. Therefore It is made by gambling fans for gambling fans.
PlayAmo has provided an app for passionate and effective online gambling enthusiasts to function at its peak. Most gamblers have collectively tried out hundreds of online gambling venues. Still, it was unfortunate that none of them offered us the experience playAmo offers.
Furthermore, the creation of PlayAmo was with the express goal of satisfying customers fully. Therefore, this article aims to show players, especially newbies, the five reasons why they should pick the PlayAmo casino app.
PlayAmo casino app is the perfect app for players to enjoy all of their favourite games. The app is designed easily and conveniently so people can access PlayAmo’s catalogue at any time and in any place. Moreover, this platform is quick and straightforward to use. It is also easy to install, and it has all of the features players expect from an online gambling website.
The PlayAmo app is available everywhere, either on iOS or Android devices. In addition, punters can install the Chrome-based desktop app on all operating systems that support the Google Chrome browser; it could be Windows, macOS, Linux, or ChromeOS.
Top 5 Reasons to Choose PlayAmo Casino in 2022
There are a couple of factors to put into consideration critically. These factors are why gamblers should choose PlayAmo casino over other platforms. The elements are as follows.
1. An Amazing Bonus Scheme.
This platform has made giving bonuses to players a standard. They also offer you more chances of winning and give players something to bank on if they eventually fail to make enough profit.
2. Full Regulation Compliance
Some regulations have been put in place for gambling; these regulations guarantee safety, honesty, and, most importantly, transparency. PlayAmo casino keeps strict to these regulations, and it’s the best place for gamblers seeking a legal platform.
3. 24/7 Customer Support
The idea is that Customer support is as essential as gambling itself. This system will help players resolve all the technical issues effectively and immediately. No matter how good a platform is, if the customers are not treated properly, it is as good as nothing. Therefore, playAmo offers its customers the most reliable customer support system.
4. Lightning-fast Payouts
This factor is basically for the comfort of the players. It allows players to receive their winnings as quickly as possible. As a gambler, there is nothing that gives you joy as receiving your winnings as soon as you hit the jackpot. This point is part of what the PlayAmo casino app offers and why players should opt for the platform.
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Over time, an excellent reputation has helped the platform become one of the most popular online casinos in the world. This is because they have great reviews and offer gamblers the best possible experience. However, the platform's breakthrough has not even started yet. So hurry and register on this platform to get the best gambling experience.
Everyone knows today what an online casino is and where to find it. But not all novice gamblers are aware that you can play virtual slots for money and without any money spending. At first glance, the demo entertainment option seems incredibly tempting because no one wants to go broke from casino games, right?
But are there any advantages of online casino gambling without money, and is it worth using the free mode on gambling sites? Read more about this expert look at two types of entertainment – paid and free in the review below.
Why is there a demo mode?
Demo games are free casino fun, for which the user does not need to replenish the balance. Such video slots differ from the usual simplified rules. The visitor does not even need to register on the casino's website to play them. We can say that this is a training mode that allows you to fill your hand and understand the rules.
Today, many virtual casinos offer their customers such a format of entertainment. Also, the manufacturers of gaming software release all the latest novelties along with free settings. This means that whatever new slot you choose now on any casino site in 2022, there will most likely be a demo option.
Online casinos use demo mode to attract even inexperienced gamblers to gaming platforms. Beginners are often worried that they can lose money in the casino, so the demo mode, in this sense, is an excellent bait for new visitors.
Advantages of a test game
Why should a novice casino client try a demo slot game? Here are the main advantages of playing slots in test mode:
No need to risk your finances
Playing in land-based casinos stopped many people, as it was necessary to replenish their accounts in the casinos. Therefore, online casinos are a great alternative to land-based gambling halls. In a virtual casino, you can spin the reels and not spend your hard-earned banknotes. This is the main advantage of the demo format.
Registration is also optional
Most online casinos offer guests to spin the reels in demo mode without registering an account. Many people like this approach since they do not need to specify personal information. Not all users want to leave their mobile number or email address.
Test the game strategy without risk to the budget
Today, there are a lot of videos about slot game strategies in the online space, but it's hard to judge whether they work. Moreover, testing strategies in practice requires funds that may not pay off. Therefore, many beginners prefer to test strategies in free mode first so that they can then play for real money.
Winning is always pleasant (even if the money is virtual)
Many users sincerely like to watch how the rotation of the reels of slots brings winnings, even virtual ones. It is delightful to look at the steep turns in bonus mini-games and free spins with special symbols.
The ability to test a video slot
In a new slot for the player, it will be pretty challenging to figure out the choice of the number of active prize lines, the amount of the wager, the features of the risk game, etc. However, thanks to the demo format, the gambler can play the slot machine for free, only then proceeding to the spins of the reels for real money.
A chance to be the first to experience a new slot
New slots from well-known providers come out quite often. As a rule, they offer their own unique features, bonuses, or design. You can be the first to play any new slot machine in demo mode on the developer's website.
Why experienced gamers don't play the demo
As for the paid game, only those who have never won real banknotes in a virtual casino will be able to refuse it. The taste of victory is an amazing thing! Therefore, if a player has ever won money in a casino, he will no longer want to leave that business since it is the only way in the world to earn money by playing and having fun. How is it possible to give up such a pleasure?
Therefore, as soon as the player understands how the machine works, professional gamblers recommend immediately switching to real betting mode.
Brian Lara. Don Bradman. Sachin Tendulkar. This article is not about cricketers like these. While Lara, Bradman, and Tendulkar – among many, many others – are legends in their fields, we want to celebrate the undersung cricketers today. These are players who perform consistently well, scoring many runs against low ball counts if they’re batspeople and consistently catching their opposite numbers out if they’re field players. Here, without further ado, are the people we consider to be the 10 most underrated cricketers of all time.
1. Belinda Clark
If you perform a quick Google search for who scored the first double-century in ODI cricket, you’ll often find Sachin Tendulkar’s name listed. That’s incorrect, though; women’s cricket legend Belinda Clark was the first one to achieve this feat, but her name is consistently glossed over in favour of Tendulkar’s. Clark deserves her place in the spotlight for her achievements, but she just isn’t talked about on the same level as some of the icons of men’s cricket, and we think that’s criminally unfair.
2. Liam Livingstone
Liam Livingstone received a Test call-up in 2018, but he’s being criminally underutilised by the England squad right now. Livingstone is a heroic batsman who hammers every single ball that comes his way, but the team is passing him over in favour of more glamorous options. As legend Kevin Pietersen said to Betway, “there aren’t many better batters” than Liam Livingstone in England right now, so it’s about time the team recognised his talent and gave him another chance.
3. Sarah Coyte
You might have heard Sarah Coyte’s name if you follow Australian women’s cricket, where she currently bowls for the Adelaide Strikers. Coyte’s bowling prowess is second to none; she’s got a wicked technique that consistently sees her being handed the ball during pivotal match moments, and she’s not a bad batswoman either, especially considering her consummate skill as a fielder. Coyte’s name should be one you’re watching if you’re into good cricket.
4. Marcus Trescothick
Here, we pay homage to a legend who’s long since retired. Marcus Trescothick helped to turn England’s international cricket reputation around; the team was known for its defensive play, but Trescothick’s aggressive batting style scared opponents into taking England seriously. Unfortunately, Trescothick wouldn’t have a very long international career thanks to an illness that stopped him from playing at a high level, but he would continue to play on and off for the local Somerset team until 2019.
5. Jhulan Goswami
If you ask anybody who knows women’s cricket about Jhulan Goswami’s name, they’ll instantly be able to tell you she’s a legend. However, to the wider sporting world, and even to those who follow men’s cricket, Goswami is criminally underrated. Still going strong at 39, Goswami is a legendary bowler who holds the record for the highest wicket number in the history of ODI cricket. Her technique must be seen to be believed; she’s fast, technical, and incredibly skilled.
6. Shivnarine Chanderpaul
Playing for the West Indies, Shivnarine Chanderpaul is one of the most undersung batsmen in cricket. His record across his 164 Test match appearances is almost unmatched; he managed to achieve almost 11,900 runs, which is very impressive indeed. Chanderpaul’s name is perhaps most commonly associated with his unique signature stance, which is an unconventional play method in cricket but which has nonetheless given him immense success.
7. Meghann Lanning
Some might say that Meghann Lanning could hardly be called “underrated”; after all, she’s currently the captain of the Australian national women’s cricket team, and given Australia’s reputation in the sport, that’s no mean feat. That’s the point, though; women’s cricket is criminally underrated, and so is Lanning. She holds the record for being Australia’s youngest ever centurion (someone who achieves a century), being just 18 years old when she managed to hit this goal.
8. Jean-Paul Duminy
You might know Duminy better as JP, but whatever you call him, he’s one of the most underrated assets the South African cricket team has ever seen. Duminy’s style wasn’t showboating or controversial; he was a calm, collected, and focused individual who put all of his energy into his off-spin technique and his finishing batting. Those who know Duminy’s name respect and revere him for being a cricketer who simply gets things done without any fuss.
9. Sarah Jane Taylor
Sarah Jane Taylor is a good case study if we want to look at the ways in which international sport can affect people’s mental health. An incredibly skilled and celebrated player, Taylor retired from international cricket in 2019 due to anxiety. She’s since hinted that she may make a return to cricket on an international level, and if she does, she’ll be welcomed back with open arms, because she’s one of the most promising players the English side has ever seen.
10. Damien Martyn
Cricket is full of legends, and Damien Martyn laboured under many Australian icons’ shadow for many years. Martyn himself was a consummate professional and an excellent player in his own right, but he happened to share the cricket stage with other, more glamorous players, and so he was consistently overlooked. It’s a shame, because he was a player with grace and style, and his cover drives were unmatched, even by the showier and more demonstrative of his colleagues.
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We could go on forever about cricket’s most underrated players, but these are the 10 we think deserve the most recognition. Is there anybody we missed? Who would be in your “underrated XI”?
Gambling on sports is a pastime as old as civilization itself. The first recorded instance of someone placing a bet on the outcome of a sporting event comes from the ancient Greeks, who would place wagers on chariot races. From there, it was only a matter of time until other forms of gambling caught on, and soon just about every major sport in the world had its betting market.
Today, sports betting is a multibillion-dollar industry, and online bookmakers are taking an ever-growing share of that pie. So if you're thinking about getting into the action, where do you start? In this article, we'll walk you through the basics of how to bet on sports. We'll cover everything from understanding odds to making smart bets to avoiding scams. By the time you finish reading, you'll be ready to hit the books (or the internet) and start making some serious profits!
What is sports betting, and how does it work?
Sports betting is the act of wagering on the outcome of a sporting event. Learning about different sports betting websites allows you to learn the technical aspect of betting through these platforms, what are their benefits and disadvantages. Finding a good source of information has been the key to raising the odd chances in your favor. For example, some websites might accept Bitcoin or other crypto values, while on the other hand, their credit card fees might be significantly higher. Betting is quite a complex process even without the aspect of modern payments because bookmakers set odds for each team or athlete, and bettors can choose to either back or lay a bet. If the bettor's selection wins, they will receive a payout based on the odds set by the bookmaker. If the selection loses, the bettor will lose their stake.
Bookmakers make money by charging a commission on winning bets, also known as the “juice” or “vig.” For example, if two teams are playing and one is favored to win, the bookmaker may set the odds at 1.90 for that team to win. This means that for every $1 you bet on that team, you would win $1.90 if they won. However, if you bet on the underdog, and they won, you would only win $0.90 for every $1 you bet since the bookmaker is favoriting the other team. In this way, the bookmaker ensures that they always make a profit, regardless of who wins the game.
How to read sports betting odds?
The first thing you need to know when sports betting is how to read odds. Odds represent the likelihood of an event occurring, and they are usually expressed as a ratio or a decimal number. For example, the odds of flipping a coin and landing on heads are 1:1, or 2.0 in decimal form. This means that for every 1 time you flip the coin, you can expect it to land on heads 2 times.
The odds of a team winning a game are usually expressed as a decimal number, such as 1.5 or 2.0. This means that for every $1 you bet on the team, you would win $1.50 if they won (or $2 if they won). If the odds are expressed as a ratio, such as 3:2, this means that for every 3 times your bet on the team, you would win 2 times.
To calculate how much money you stand to win or lose on a bet, you need to multiply your stake by the odds. For example, if you bet $10 on a team with odds of 1.5, you would win $15 if they won. If the team had odds of 2.0, you would win $20.
It's important to note that bookmakers will often change the odds to balance their books or to take into account factors that may affect the outcome of the game. For example, if one team is heavily favored to win, the bookmaker may increase their odds to attract more bets on the other team. This is why it's important to shop around for the best odds before placing your bet.
What are some common types of bets?
There are dozens of different types of bets that can be placed on sporting events, especially today, but here are some of the most common:
Moneyline: This is a bet on which team will win the game. The odds are usually expressed as a decimal number, such as 1.5 or 2.0. For example, if you bet $10 on a team with odds of 1.5, you would win $15 if they won.
Point Spread: This is a bet on which team will win the game, with the odds adjusted to reflect the point spread. The point spread is the number of points by which one team is expected to beat another team. For example, if the point spread is 7, and you bet on the favorite to win, they must win by more than 7 points for you to win your bet. If they win by 7 points, your bet is a push (meaning you get your original stake back).
Over/Under: This is a bet on whether the total number of points scored in the game will be more or less than the bookmaker's predicted amount. For example, if the bookmaker sets the over/under at 50 and you bet on the over, you will win if there are more than 50 points scored in the game.
Parlay: This is a bet that combines two or more bets into one. For example, you could bet on the outcome of two different games and if both teams win, you would win both bets. The downside to parlays is that they are very risky, as you must win all of the bets to win the parlay.
Futures: This is a bet on which team will win a championship or other event that takes place at some point in the future. For example, you could bet on which team will win the Super Bowl before the season even starts.
Props: This is a bet on something that will happen during the game, such as whether a certain player will score a touchdown or how many points will be scored in the first half.
How to make smart bets?
The key to winning money in sports betting is to make smart bets. This means knowing what you're doing and not letting your emotions get in the way. The higher the odds, the less likely it is to happen. For example, it's very unlikely that you will flip a coin and have it land on heads 100 times in a row. However, it's still possible, no matter how unlikely it may seem.
Bookmakers will often change the odds to balance their books or to take into account factors that may affect the outcome of the game. For example, if one team is heavily favored to win, the bookmaker may increase their odds to attract more bets on the other team. This is why it's important to shop around for the best odds before placing your bet.
It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of a game and bet on your favorite team, even if they're not playing well. However, this is a surefire way to lose money. Always try to bet objectively and with a clear head.
Do your research
There's a lot of information out there, and it can be difficult to know who to trust. However, it's important to do your research before placing a bet. This means reading up on the teams, the players, and the conditions that may affect the outcome of the game. The more you know, the better your chances of winning will be.
Remember that sports betting should be about having fun and enjoying the games. Don't risk more money than you can afford to lose, and don't get too upset if you do lose. After all, it's just a game!
Playing soccer on a professional level takes years of practice. However, you can fast-track the process to some extent by ensuring the following.
Get a Professional Coach or Join a Soccer Training Program
Your team needs a good coach. A good coach is someone who can motivate the players on your team. They are also someone who can teach them how to play the game, communicate with them about the game, solve problems for them and help develop their talent so they can play at the highest level of soccer possible.
A good coach will be able to build team spirit among players and keep them focused on what they need to accomplish for the team as a whole to win games.
You can also take your team to professional adult soccer leagues training programs. These programs will help you train professionally, which you need to build the professionalism you are looking for in your team. Intense training sessions that professionals go through will help you and your team realize your strengths and weaknesses.
Train Smart
You can’t have a winning team if your players don’t train hard. It is the number one reason why amateur teams lose to professional teams.
To train hard, you need to first decide what kind of training will best suit your team's needs. Do you want your players to be fit? Or do you want them to work on their ball skills? The answer depends on what position each player plays and their strengths and weaknesses.
For example, if a striker is known for his speed but not so much for his finishing ability, then speed drills would be a good choice, while working on finishing touches would be better suited for someone who struggles with passing accuracy but has plenty of skill when shooting from a distance. If all this sounds complicated, then remember: practice makes perfect!
Once you've decided how hard your players should be practicing, then it is time to put together an actual plan for how they'll do so effectively over their week or two off from their regular games (if any).
Know Your Competition
You will need to know the rules of the league, game, and field/court. Every league has different rules in terms of duration, penalties, and substitutions. You can also find out about other leagues by researching them.
Most likely, there will be a governing body that oversees all professional leagues in your country or region. This organization is usually responsible for making sure that everyone follows their guidelines so that everyone plays fairly and without injury.
The rules for each sport vary across countries and regions. However, they provide guidelines on how long each game should be played (e.g., 90 minutes) as well as defining what constitutes an offside violation in soccer while outlining what happens when someone commits a foul during play (e.g., free kick).
The point here is that if you want your team to compete at this level, everyone must know these basic principles, so they don't make mistakes during games because they aren't aware of how things work at this level!
Care about the Game
If you're going to take care of your team and its players, you have to care about the game and its players enough to do what is best for them. You have to be a good coach, teammate, player, and parent. You have to put in extra effort and make sacrifices every day of your life for the team to succeed on their way up from amateur level play through professional status.
Don't expect money or fame from coaching soccer; don't expect glory either (unless you win). Instead, think about how you can help others achieve their dreams through hard work and dedication—the same thing that has gotten them this far, along with their friends/family who've supported them along the way.
Remember that this isn’t just about winning games on Saturday mornings. It is also about developing friendships between teammates who may end up being closer than family members someday down the road.
Stay Organized
You're a coach, and you need to organize your team. A schedule is a great way of doing that—it helps players know when they're expected to show up, making it easier to plan practice times. You can also use a roster: a list of every player's name and contact info (e-mail address, phone number). Team captains can keep track of these things on Google Drive or Excel if you don't want them in paper format; otherwise, make copies for everyone!
In addition to getting organized with rosters and schedules, it is vital for your players' safety that they stay hydrated and healthy during games—and throughout their practices too.
Once you ensure all these, your team will start playing soccer on a professional level. While it may not be the same as professional soccer league players, you will surely get better at the game.
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