Getting Started with FairPlay: A Beginner's Walkthrough

If you are completely new to FairPlay, this walkthrough is the best place to start. It pulls together the whole journey — from creating an account to placing a sensible first bet — into one clear path, with links to deeper guides at each step. Take it slowly; there is no prize for rushing, and the goal is to understand what you are doing. You must be 18 or over to take part.

Step 1: Understand what FairPlay is

Before you bet a single rupee, it helps to know what an exchange actually is. Unlike a traditional bookmaker, FairPlay matches you against other bettors, and lets you both back (bet for) and lay (bet against) an outcome. If that is new, read what a betting exchange is first — it is the foundation everything else builds on. Spending ten quiet minutes on that one idea will make every later step feel obvious rather than confusing, and it is time far better spent than hunting for so-called tips.

Step 2: Create your account

Setting up takes only a few minutes: enter your details, verify your mobile number, and agree to the terms. Use genuine information and a strong, unique password from the start. Our step-by-step account guide covers the whole process, including the identity verification (KYC) you may be asked to complete before your first withdrawal.

Step 3: Add funds and set a budget

Next, fund your wallet — UPI is one of the quickest ways, as explained in our UPI deposits guide. But before you deposit anything, decide your budget. A simple rule: only ever add money you can comfortably afford to lose, and treat that amount as the cost of your entertainment. Setting a deposit limit at this stage is one of the smartest moves a beginner can make.

Step 4: Learn the markets

Spend some time understanding what you can bet on before you bet on it. Start with Match Odds — simply who wins — which is the clearest and most liquid market. As you grow more confident, explore the bookmaker and fancy markets covered in our markets guide, and get comfortable reading prices with how to read cricket odds. Knowing what a price means is far more useful than chasing a "tip".

Step 5: Place a sensible first bet

When you are ready, keep your first bet small. Choose a match, pick the Match Odds market, decide whether to back or lay, enter a modest stake and confirm. Watch how the market behaves over the next few overs. The aim of your first bet is not to win big — it is to learn the mechanics with money you have already decided you can afford to lose. From there you can explore in-play betting once the basics feel natural.

Step 6: Play responsibly from day one

Good habits are easiest to build at the start. Set deposit and time limits, take regular breaks, and never chase a loss by increasing your stake to "win it back". Keep betting in its place as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. If it ever stops being fun, step away — and know that tools exist to help, as covered in responsible gambling.

Frequently asked questions

What should I learn before placing a bet?

Understand how an exchange works (backing and laying), how to read odds, and what the Match Odds market is. That foundation matters more than any tip.

How much should I deposit to start?

Only an amount you can comfortably afford to lose. Set a budget and a deposit limit before you add funds, and treat it as entertainment spend.

What is a good first bet?

A small bet on the Match Odds market, placed mainly to learn the mechanics. Keep the stake modest while you find your feet.

Do I need to verify my identity?

Usually before your first withdrawal. Completing KYC early with valid documents in your own name avoids delays later.

Take the first step

When you have read the basics and set your budget, you are ready to explore. See how it all fits together on FairPlay.

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