Sports betting in India has taken a major leap forward in 2025, especially for those looking to get more value right from the start.
One of the best ways to boost your bankroll instantly is through matched deposit offers. These promotions reward you with bonus funds based on how much you deposit, often multiplying your betting power by 100%, 150%, or even more.
Matched betting deposit offers make it easier to explore the world of online sports betting without risking too much of your own money. Top platforms like Melbet, Puntit, Parimatch and Dafabet are rolling out some of the most generous deals and bonuses this August.
Signing up is straightforward, especially since leading sites are now fully optimized for Indian players.
You can deposit using UPI, Paytm, PhonePe, and other familiar payment options, making the process smooth and secure.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about using matched deposit bonuses in India. You'll learn how these offers work, which platforms offer the best deals this month, and how to turn sign-up rewards into consistent profits using smart betting strategies.
Let's dive in...
Best matched deposit betting offers in India — August 2025
Platform | Matched Deposit Rate | Maximum Bonus | Minimum Deposit | Wagering Requirements | |
Melbet | 150% | ₹40,000 | ₹200 | 16x | |
Puntit | 100% | ₹20,000 | ₹500 | 20x | |
Parimatch | 150% | ₹30,000 | ₹500 | 16x | |
BC Game | Up to 100% + 20 free bet | Not specified | Not specified | Special unlock system | |
Roobet | Free bet + cashback | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | |
888Starz Sports | 100% + 50% (Tuesdays) | ₹33,000 | ₹90 | 5x (accumulator bets only) | |
Dafabet | 150% | ₹150,000 | ₹500 | 15x |
What is matched betting?
Matched betting is a strategy that lets you turn free bets and bonuses from bookmakers into real, guaranteed profit. Unlike regular betting, where you're relying on the outcome of a game, matched betting removes uncertainty by covering all possible results of an event.
The core idea is simple: you place two bets on the same outcome which is a back bet and a lay bet. The back bet is placed with a bookmaker (e.g., India to win), while the lay bet is placed on a betting exchange like Betfair or Smarkets, where you bet on India not to win (meaning they lose or draw). These two bets effectively cancel each other out, so no matter what happens, you don’t lose money.
MORE: How to bet on cricket in India, a complete guide
How to sign up for matched betting in India
Getting started with matched betting in India is easy when you know what steps to follow. A solid setup not only keeps things safe and organized but also helps you get the most profit from bookmaker offers. Here’s a step-by-step guide to set yourself up for success.
1. Build a starting bankroll
You don’t need a huge amount to begin. Even ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 is enough to get going. The more you can set aside, the more offers you can complete at once. Keep this money separate from your personal funds so you can clearly track profits and spending.
2. Sign up with reliable bookmakers
Create accounts on several trusted bookmakers that accept Indian players. This gives you access to a wide range of welcome bonuses and ongoing promos. Make sure to complete identity verification using your Aadhaar or PAN card to meet KYC requirements.
Some good options include:
3. Open a betting exchange account
A betting exchange is where you place lay bets. Without one, matched betting won't work. Sites like Smarkets, Betfair, and Betdaq are popular among Indian users. Sign up, verify your account, and get familiar with how to lay a bet.
4. Use the right tools
Matched Betting Calculator: Helps you work out exact back and lay stake amounts to lock in a profit or break-even on qualifying bets.
Oddsmatcher Tool: Finds the best odds matches between bookmakers and exchanges so you lose as little as possible on qualifying bets.
Matched Betting Communities: Forums and Telegram groups are great for spotting new offers and getting help.
5. Find and complete offers
Visit bookmaker promo pages and community forums to find deposit bonuses, free bets, and reload deals. Always read the terms carefully, watch for minimum odds, expiry dates, and wagering requirements.
The Sporting News works with several trusted partners to bring you some of the best deals available. You can see the latest selection below.
When you’ve found an offer:
- Place the back bet on the bookmaker's site.
- Place the lay bet on the exchange using the calculator to get the stakes right.
- Once you’ve qualified, repeat the process with your free bet to lock in a profit.
6. Track your bets
Use a spreadsheet to record each bet, offer, and outcome. This helps you stay on top of multiple offers and avoid confusion. Being organized makes the whole process much easier and helps you spot what’s working best.
7. Bet responsibly
Only bet what you can afford to set aside. Even though matched betting is low-risk, it’s important to stay within your comfort zone. Stick to licensed international sites that support Indian users and follow local laws to stay safe.
Set things up right from the start, and matched betting in India can become a consistent, low-risk way to earn extra income.
Top matched betting sites in India — August 2025 review
Rank | Betting Site | Key Features and Offer Highlights |
1 | Dafabet | |
2 | Puntit | |
3 | Parimatch | |
4 | BC Game | |
5 | Melbet | |
6 | Roobet | |
7 | 888Starz Sports |
Examples of matched bets you can try
Matched betting allows you to profit from bookmaker offers by strategically placing pairs of bets that cover all outcomes. Here are some practical examples of matched bets you can try as a beginner or experienced bettor in India:
1. Welcome Offer Matched Bet
Scenario: A bookmaker offers a “100% matched deposit bonus up to ₹10,000.”
- Step 1: Deposit ₹1,000 and receive ₹1,000 in bonus funds.
- Step 2: Place a back bet (e.g., India to win at 2.0 odds in a cricket match) using your real money.
- Step 3: Simultaneously, place a lay bet against India at the exchange, covering all outcomes.
What happens: Regardless of the result, your losses at one site are offset by your winnings at the other. The bonus funds become either profit or can be withdrawn after fulfilling wagering requirements.
2. Free Bet Token Example
Offer: “Bet ₹1,000, get a free ₹1,000 bet.”
- Step 1: Make a qualifying back bet with the bookmaker and a matching lay bet on the exchange.
- Step 2: Win or lose, you now receive a free bet.
- Step 3: Use your ₹1,000 free bet to place another back bet, and again, place a lay bet on the same selection at the exchange.
Result: The free bet can be converted into risk-free profit, typically between 70–80% of the free bet value depending on odds and commission.
3. Reload or Ongoing Promotions
Situation: Bookmaker offers “Bet ₹2,000 on football, get a ₹500 free bet.”
- Step 1: Place back and lay bets for the ₹2,000 qualifier.
- Step 2: Receive the ₹500 free bet and again match it with a lay bet on the exchange.
Result: By repeating this process on reload offers, you can generate regular, low-risk income from ongoing bookmaker promotions.
4. Multiple Outcome Matched Betting
Context: For offers on high-profile events (like IPL finals or football cup finals) where bookmakers provide enhanced odds on several teams.
- Step 1: Back three different teams with enhanced odds using different bookmaker offers.
- Step 2: Lay those teams on an exchange, one at a time, as offers become available.
Result: You’re covered for all tournament outcomes, and you capitalize on each bookmaker’s promotion, increasing your guaranteed returns.
Matched betting calculator – how to use it effectively
A matched betting calculator is your go-to tool for turning bookmaker offers into guaranteed profits. It helps you figure out the exact amount to stake on both the bookmaker and the betting exchange, so you can cover all outcomes and lock in a return. If you’re serious about matched betting, this calculator is an essential.
The calculator takes key betting details and works out:
- How much to lay on a betting exchange
- Your total liability (how much you’ll need in your exchange account)
- Your profit or loss depending on whether it's a qualifying bet or a free bet
It also factors in exchange commission, which is usually between 2% and 5%, to give you an accurate picture of your actual returns.
Step-by-Step: How to use the calculator
1. Pick the right bet type
Choose the type of bet you're placing:
- Qualifying bet (used to unlock a free bet)
- Free bet – stake returned
- Free bet – stake not returned (most common)
2. Enter back bet information
Input the amount you're betting at the bookmaker and the back odds offered.
3. Enter lay bet information
Type in the lay odds from your betting exchange and the commission percentage charged by the exchange.
4. Calculate and review
The calculator will instantly give you:
- The correct lay stake to place
- Your liability amount
- Projected profit or qualifying loss depending on the bet type
5. Place your bets
Use the calculator’s results to place:
- The back bet with the bookmaker
- The lay bet at the exchange using the recommended stake
Tips for using it correctly
- Use live odds: Odds can change quickly, so always double-check before placing your bets.
- Start small: If you’re new, use low stakes while you learn how the numbers work.
- Stay accurate: Even a small input error can impact your results, so enter odds, stake, and commission carefully.
- Keep records: Track your bets and calculator results in a spreadsheet to monitor profits and improve your strategy over time.
How to sign up for a betting account in India
The good news once you are ready to start betting? Signing up takes just a few minutes. Just be sure to use your real info and keep your KYC docs handy as most sites require quick ID verification before you can deposit or withdraw.
Here's our step-by-step guide:
- Choose a licensed betting app that accepts Indian users, such as Dafabet, Parimatch or Puntit
- Create an account with your name, email, and phone number
- Verify your identity (usually Aadhaar, PAN or utility bill)
- Choose your deposit method: UPI, Paytm, NetBanking, GPay, etc.
- Make your first deposit
- Claim your welcome bonus (check our list below for some of the best)
- Start browsing markets and place your bets!
Pro tip: Always set a budget and stick to it. Betting should be fun not stressful. Use tools available on betting apps to set daily or weekly deposit limits.