Rising Concern Over Online Betting And Fantasy Platforms Amid IPL Craze

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to captivate millions nationwide, a troubling issue is emerging in its shadow: the growing influence of online betting and so-called fantasy platforms.

Many of these apps enjoy endorsements from some of cricket’s biggest names, sparking serious concerns among parents and fans.

Youth Vulnerable To Betting Apps Backed By Celebrity Endorsements

From bustling metros to smaller towns, teenagers and young adults increasingly fall prey to fantasy gaming and betting applications.

Drawn by the promise of easy money and the allure of glamorous celebrity promotions, many young users suffer financial losses, academic decline, and worsening mental health.

Manish, a 55-year-old father from Delhi, shared his distress: “It’s heartbreaking. Cricket used to be about inspiration and sportsmanship. Now it’s pushing our youth into addiction.”

After discovering his 16-year-old son had lost ₹50,000, Manish deleted three such apps from the teen’s phone. “Why are my heroes promoting something so dangerous?” he asked.

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Another concerned parent voiced frustration, accusing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of neglecting its responsibility.

“The BCCI is busy making money and doesn’t seem to care about what’s happening to our kids,” they said. “Top cricketers promote these apps, and the board isn’t stopping them. Some platforms even sponsor major tournaments. They cleverly call it fantasy sports, but real money is involved, and kids get addicted thinking it’s a quick way to earn.”

Betting Behaviour Visible At Matches

At a recent match, one family was shocked to witness several spectators openly placing bets on their phones.

“We saw teenagers on calls, placing bets live from the stadium. And there were many of them,” a parent revealed.

While law enforcement agencies have occasionally dismantled illegal betting rings, the greater threat now stems from mobile apps operating openly as fantasy gaming platforms.

These apps avoid strict regulation yet encourage risky betting behaviours.

Calls For BCCI To Take Moral Responsibility

Critics argue that the BCCI, cricket’s richest and most influential governing body, must accept moral responsibility for this growing crisis.

However, the board’s silence has only heightened public unease, particularly as prominent IPL players continue to endorse these platforms in advertisements.

Public pressure is mounting. Fans and parents demand that the BCCI ban sponsorships and endorsements from these gaming companies.

They also urge cricketers to reject such deals and promote responsible behaviour instead.

A Call To Restore Cricket’s True Spirit

In a country where cricketers are revered like gods, supporters say it is time for accountability to match fame.

For many, cricket must return to its roots, a celebration of skill, spirit, and sportsmanship, not a gateway to gambling addiction.