Two Models, Two Philosophies
The terms “cricket ID” and “exchange ID” are used frequently — and often interchangeably — in Indian betting circles. They are not the same thing. Understanding the distinction between these two account types is fundamental to choosing the right platform for your objectives and betting style.
A cricket ID typically refers to an account on a traditional bookmaker-style platform. An exchange ID refers to an account on a peer-to-peer betting exchange. Each model has structural advantages and limitations. Neither is universally superior — the right choice depends on how you bet, what you prioritize, and how actively you want to manage your positions.
This article provides a factual comparison to help you make an informed decision.
How a Cricket ID (Bookmaker) Works
When you place a bet through a cricket ID on a bookmaker platform, you are betting against the house. The bookmaker sets the odds, accepts your bet, and pays out if you win. The bookmaker profits through the margin built into their odds (the overround).
Key characteristics:
Fixed odds at time of bet: When you place a bet at 1.90, that is your locked rate. Even if the odds move to 2.10 before the match, your payout is based on 1.90. This provides certainty at the moment of placement.
Wider market coverage: Bookmaker platforms typically offer more exotic markets — man of the match, method of dismissal, specific player milestones. These niche markets are harder to sustain on exchanges due to lower liquidity.
Simpler interface: The user experience is straightforward: select a market, enter your stake, confirm. There is no concept of “back” versus “lay.” This simplicity makes bookmaker platforms more accessible to beginners.
The house always has an edge: The overround ensures the bookmaker profits regardless of the match outcome. On a typical cricket match, this margin is 3-8%, depending on the market and the platform.
Learn more about the available options through our cricket betting ID page.
How an Exchange ID Works
A betting exchange is fundamentally different. You are not betting against the house — you are betting against other users. The exchange is a marketplace that matches buyers (backers) with sellers (layers). The exchange charges a commission on net winnings, typically 2-5%, rather than building margin into odds.
Key characteristics:
Back and Lay: The defining feature. “Backing” means betting for an outcome (Team A to win). “Laying” means betting against an outcome (Team A NOT to win). Lay betting does not exist on traditional bookmaker platforms. It allows you to effectively act as the bookmaker.
Better odds (usually): Because there is no bookmaker margin, exchange odds are typically closer to true probability. On a market where a bookmaker offers 1.85, the exchange might offer 1.95. Over thousands of bets, this difference in odds significantly impacts profitability.
Trading capability: Exchanges allow you to close positions before an event concludes. If you backed Team A at 2.50 and the odds drop to 1.80 during the match, you can lay Team A at 1.80 to lock in a profit regardless of the outcome. This “trading” approach is impossible on bookmaker platforms.
Liquidity dependency: Exchange odds only exist if someone is willing to take the other side. On popular cricket matches (IPL, international T20s), liquidity is deep. On niche events, you may not find a counterparty at desirable odds.
For detailed information about exchange mechanics and available platforms, visit our exchange betting ID page.
Direct Comparison
Which Type Suits You?
Choose a Cricket ID (Bookmaker) If:
You are new to online betting and want a simple, intuitive experience. You prefer placing bets and walking away rather than actively managing positions. You enjoy exotic markets like “top batsman” or “method of next dismissal.” You value guaranteed bet acceptance without worrying about liquidity.
Choose an Exchange ID If:
You understand back-and-lay mechanics and want to trade positions during live matches. You prioritize getting the best possible odds on major markets. You are comfortable with a more complex interface in exchange for greater control. You plan to bet frequently enough that the improved odds compound into meaningful profit differences.
Choose Both If:
This is the approach most experienced bettors adopt. Use the exchange for major match winner and over/under markets where liquidity is deep and odds are superior. Use the bookmaker for exotic markets, niche events, or when you want simplicity. Having both options maximizes your flexibility.
Practical Example: Same Match, Two Approaches
Consider an IPL match between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings:
On a bookmaker platform (Cricket ID): You bet ₹1,000 on MI to win at odds of 1.85. If MI wins, you receive ₹1,850 (₹850 profit). If MI loses, you lose ₹1,000. The position cannot be changed once placed. Total exposure: ₹1,000.
On an exchange (Exchange ID): You back MI at 1.95 for ₹1,000. MI wins the toss, bats first, and scores 195. During the innings break, MI’s odds have dropped to 1.40. You now lay MI at 1.40 for ₹1,393. Regardless of the match result, you lock in a profit of approximately ₹393. Your original analysis was correct (MI were underpriced), and the exchange allowed you to realize that profit without waiting for the match to conclude.
This example illustrates why exchanges appeal to active bettors — they offer exit strategies that bookmaker platforms do not.
Making Your Decision
The choice between a cricket ID and an exchange ID is not permanent, and it does not need to be exclusive. At BettingIDProvider.com, we provide both types of IDs. Our team can recommend the right starting point based on your experience level, betting interests, and budget.
If you are unsure, start with a cricket ID (bookmaker) to learn the fundamentals of odds, markets, and bankroll management. Once comfortable, add an exchange ID to access better odds and trading capabilities. This progressive approach minimizes the learning curve while giving you access to the full spectrum of betting options.