Nagpur: With Team India emerging as the bookies’ favourite following a 4-1 series win in T20Is, the city is witnessing heightened betting activity ahead of the India vs England One Day International (ODI) at Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) Stadium, Jamtha, on Thursday, February 6. This marks the first bilateral ODI in Nagpur after a gap of six years, prompting a surge in betting transactions expected to run into crores.

According to sources, several notorious bookies from across the country have reportedly set up operations in hotels along the city’s outskirts. Betting rates heavily favour India at 51-52 against England.

In response, Nagpur Police, particularly the Crime Branch, have launched a crackdown on illegal betting activities. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Rahul Makhnikar said, “All Crime Branch teams have prepared a list of previously charged cricket bookies, who are now under close surveillance. Crime Branch units have been deployed to monitor their movements.”

Additionally, the Nagpur Cyber Cell is keeping a watchful eye on online betting networks and has recently summoned five suspects for questioning over ticket black-marketing.

Nagpur Police, learning from previous incidents, are taking preventive measures to avoid a repeat of the 2023 ODI between India and Australia, where four bookies were apprehended from the spectator stands at VCA Stadium. Police teams have been stationed at key points near the stadium to monitor suspicious activities.

DCP Makhnikar issued a stern warning to suspected bookies, stating that their movements will be closely tracked throughout the event. “Anyone found engaging in illegal betting will face strict action under the law,” he emphasized.

Authorities have urged cricket enthusiasts to report any illegal betting activities and reminded them to purchase tickets only from authorized platforms.