The Ashes is probably not only the biggest sporting event in cricket, but in all of sports. Every two years, bitter rivals England and Australia come together for their iconic clash of willow and leather, which makes it all the more exciting to bet on. Choosing the right betting site, however, isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to show you how we rank the best betting sites, short reviews of a select few sites, effective strategies you can employ to land some winnings, and plenty more.
Best Ashes Bookmakers in 2024:
1
5 / 5
TOTAL SCORE
Claim a 100% upto €60 Bonus
- Known for competitive odds on most markets
- Plenty of ways to deposit and withdraw funds
- Clean and modern site and app
- Excellent coverage of major events, including The Ashes
- Plenty of payment methods and withdrawal options available
- Intuitive and easy-to-navigate site makes for a pleasant experience
18+, Welcome Bonus: New Players only, 1st Deposit, Min Deposit: €10, max €15 bonus, valid for 14 days, bets must be placed at a min. odds of 1/1 (2.00) or greater and be settled within 14 days of placement.System bets no eligible.
New Customers only. Bet €10* & Get €30* in Free Bets. Sign up, deposit between €5* and €10* to your account and bet365 will give you three times that value in Free Bets when you place qualifying bets to the same value and they are settled. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits. Min odds/bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. T&Cs, time limits & exclusions apply. Registration Required.
New Customers only. Bet €10* & Get €30* in Free Bets. Sign up, deposit between €5* and €10* to your account and bet365 will give you three times that value in Free Bets when you place qualifying bets to the same value and they are settled. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits. Min odds/bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. T&Cs, time limits & exclusions apply. Registration Required.
KQC: 18+. Play safe. New customers using Promo code H30 only, Min £10/€10 stake, min odds 1/2, free bets paid as 2 x £15/€15, free bets credited after settlement of first qualifying bet, free bets will expire 30 days after the qualifying bet is placed, payment method/player/country restrictions apply.
Of course, you're going to find a huge amount of markets here. There are currently nearly 50 different sports and specials markets, which is impressive when many sites can offer around 30. You're of course going to find hundreds of football markets here, as well as greyhound racing and horse racing. There's also distance horse racing, which is interesting to see.
Significant terms: 18+. UK+IRE customers only. Certain deposit methods & bet types excluded. Min £/€5 first bet within 14 days of account reg at min odds 1/2 = 4 x £/€5 free bets. Free bets valid for 7 days on sports, stakes not returned, restrictions apply. T&Cs apply.
When you do sign up, you'll be able to claim a €100 free bet as a new member. To claim this, all you have to do is sign up, make a deposit of €30, and wager it. Once you've done that, that free bet will be in your account.
Whether it’s the overall winner, top batsman, most runs, or something else, betting markets need to be extensive to keep bettors interested. These are all staples that should be present on any credible betting site’s list, as well as more unique bets where possible. The Ashes betting sites that offer more variety will stand out amongst the crowd.
Live betting and live streaming
Live betting and live streaming are in-demand tools that helps bettors place wagers on the fly, as they’re watching the action unfold. If a punter is watching The Ashes and they can see the momentum begin to shift, they will want to place a bet. Having an in-play option to do so is crucial. We factor these tools into our review. In particular, we expect live streaming to be offered for The Ashes, with minimal disruption/lag and a crisp resolution.
Competitive odds
If one site is offering 2.90 fixed odds on one market, while another offers 2.70 for the same event, it’s pretty clear which one the bettor will choose. Of course, in reality it’s more than just about odds, but the competitiveness of them plays a big part and we review sites that consistently offer the best. We compare the odds between bookies to identify the ones that offer the most favourable.
Bonuses and promotions
When major events like The Ashes are around, promotions and bonuses are bound to pop up all over the place, especially sign up offers. We assess how valuable these are for new and existing players, from the amount of bonus funds offered, down to the terms and conditions applied to get some real money. We ensure that there’s a good balance between the bonus value and how feasible it is for bettors to attain, as some terms and conditions simply aren’t up to scratch.
Responsible gaming tools
An Ashes betting site that offers a range of responsible gaming tools demonstrates a commitment to a duty of care for their customers as well. There are a number of tools out there that can help bettors enjoy greater control and peace of mind over their spending. Those such as self-exclusion, daily or monthly spending caps, or time out sessions are all great to see. We assess the availability and ease of accessing these tools.
Apps
Convenience is key when it comes to betting nowadays. And, as everyone is using mobile for everything else, it’s crucial that the betting app is up to standard. We assess whether Ashes betting sites offer an app firstly, then look at how compatible, reliable, and user-friendly it is. We then look to see that it offers all the markets, features, events, and ways to play that the website does so it’s a replicable experience. We’ll recommend sites that offer the best experiences when it comes to their apps.
Reputation and licencing
Sites need to have a UK Gambling Commission licence and be subjected to proper regulation for us to even consider recommending them. Anything less is an immediate red flag. Reputable sites only in our ranking.
Deposits and withdrawals
The Ashes betting sites need to ensure that the deposit and withdrawal process is seamless and straightforward, while catering to the varying preferences of their customers. Not everybody wants to use a debit card to deposit funds, so we assess whether other payment methods are available. That includes e-wallet solutions – for example Apple Pay and Google Pay – pre-paid cards, as well as PayPal, Revolut, Neteller, or Skrill. Similarly, we then assess how easy it is to withdraw funds and that there are a similar number of methods supported.
Signing up
There’s bound to be new and excited prospective bettors flocking to sign up to sites for The Ashes, especially if they’re trying to take up a welcome bonus. While signing up to a new bookies will inevitably require providing some personal details and following some steps, it shouldn’t be a headache. We assess the sign up process for bookies to ensure it’s quick, easy, and players can get going right away. A frictionless joining process can be the difference between a player opting to go with a different bookmaker.
Customer support
It’s important that Ashes betting sites offer a seamless and helpful customer service experience for bettors, whether it’s to answer a simple question or resolve an issue. We assess the availability of live chat, and whether it’s there 24/7, as well as email and a toll-free telephone number being in place. We then look to see how friendly and knowledgeable customer support agents are, assessing how speedily and knowledgeably issues are resolved. The better the service, the more favourably a site will be looked upon.
Security and fair play
Last but not least, something that’s often overlooked is how secure a betting site is. With cybersecurity at an all-time high and only continuing to grow, advanced tools and security best practices need to be in place to safeguard customers’ personal data and of course their money. We assess how a bookie approaches this crucial area as it gives bettors peace of mind when betting, while allowing betting sites to focus on delivering an excellent service.
Best Ashes bookmakers in Ireland for 2024
Pros and cons are true with anything in like and bookmakers aren’t exempt from that rule. The key is knowing about them so you can choose wisely before opting to play with a bookies. After all, if one of their weaknesses is a feature or experience that you value, you might not want to go with them. Then again, they might excel in certain areas that make playing with them a no brainer. Here are a selection of bookies’ strengths and weaknesses.
888sport
Pros
Provides a good selection of events to wager on, including The Ashes
Supports wide range of payment methods
Offers competitive odds for WST.
They are a reputable bookie with good standing in the industry
Cons
Live streaming and in-play betting aren’t as good as competitors
The website needs a facelift
888sport is a reputable and longstanding place for all things sports and casino betting. They do well at offering punters plenty of options for any number events, including The Ashes. Founded in 2008, the bookie is a go-to choice because of their sports coverage, decent odds, and worthwhile promotions. The live streaming and in-play betting could do with some improvement to put them in the conversation of the absolute best, but they’re still very much a worthwhile option for any bettor looking to enjoy some betting on major events, like The Ashes.
BetVictor
Pros
Known for competitive odds on most markets
Plenty of ways to deposit and withdraw funds
Clean and modern site and app
Reliable customer support available 24/7
Cons
Promotions on free bets run out if not used
Live streaming availability subject to certain conditions
BetVictor is well known and a go-to choice for millions of players in the UK and Ireland, having been around since 1946. Known for their competitive odds, flexible and speedy payouts, and modern betting experience, BetVictor is a solid choice for The Ashes and other major or minor events. New and existing customers enjoy no shortage of promotions, whether generic or specific to a particular event. The bookie does a lot of things well, a lot of things excellently, and very few things badly. They’re not without flaws, as is any bookie, but they’re always reliable for a good experience.
BoyleSports
Pros
Excellent coverage of major events, including The Ashes
Plenty of payment methods and withdrawal options available
Intuitive and easy-to-navigate site makes for a pleasant experience
Cons
Odds are competitive but not anything special
Founded in 1982, BoyleSports is one of the biggest bookies in the UK and Ireland, catering to millions of customers with extensive sports coverage, competitive odds, and special promotions for major events, like The Ashes. With plenty of markets to bet on, ways to deposit funds, and a site that makes it easy to play, it’s no wonder they’re a popular choice with bettors for major and minor events. This bookie has a couple of things it could do with improving, but what it does well, it does really well. For The Ashes in particular, BoyleSports is a worthy candidate to play with throughout the tournament.
Mr Play
Pros
Welcome offer does what it says on the tin
Wide selection of sports and markets available
Odds are competitive
Cons
Live streaming is a missing feature
Loyalty programme is only available for the casino, not sports
Mr Play has been earning a name for themselves since 2017, quickly establishing a reputation as a worthy rival in the sports betting world. The bookie might be new to the scene but they do a lot of things well. First off, their welcome offer is straightforward and without unreasonable T&Cs, while they do offer a wide selection of sports and markets to bet on. Live streaming is sorely missing, but they do enough things well for that not to be a dealbreaker – for now. Live streaming might not be available, but live betting is, and it performs well. Overall, this bookie is a notable choice for any Ashes betting or other events that might be on.
The Ashes racing betting markets
The Ashes is arguably the most exciting cricketing event in the calendar, so the betting experience should match that intensity and excitement. There are many things that can happen in a single inning, let alone a Test or the entire series, so a range of markets should always be available. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular.
Series winner: The easiest and most popular Ashes bet where you predict the outcome of the series. That means choosing a win, lose or draw
Correct score: This is predicting the series winner but getting much more specific, meaning much more attractive odds. That means choosing a specific score for the final outcome.
Top run scorer: Predicting the player you believe will score the most runs throughout series
Top wicket taker: Similar to the above, but predicting which bowler will take the most wickets throughout the series
Over/under innings: Predicting whether the total number of runs scored in a specific innings of a Test match will be over or under a certain number
Century betting: Betting on whether a century (100 runs by a single batsman) will be scored in the series
Method of next dismissal: Betting on how the next batsman will be dismissed, whether by being bowled, caught, LBW (leg before wicket), or some other way
Betting offers on offer for The Ashes
Everyone would love to land some winnings without spending their own money. That’s not always possible, but betting offers certainly do a lot of the work to get there. It’s just a case of understanding the types of offers you’re likely to see, so you can keep a close eye on a range of bookies to maximise your options. Here’s some of the ones to watch out for:
Type
Description
Welcome bonus
Welcome bonuses usually come in the form of ‘bet and get’ offers, which means, when a new player signs up, they are required to place a qualifying bet and they then receive some bonus funds. For example, bet €10/£10 to get €30/£30, €50/£50 or even €100/£100 back as bonus funds.
Enhanced odds
For major events, bookies tend to offer enhanced odds, which means a boost on regular fixed odds for a limited time and for specific markets. For example, for one of the Ashes five Tests. Enhanced odds help boost winnings without staking more money.
Acca bonuses
Accumulator bonuses are popular for betting on The Ashes and other events because they provide players with a percentage bonus on winning accas placed pre-event. The percentage amount usually increases when the number of selections do too, meaning higher winnings for accas with more selections.
In-play options
Bookmakers regularly offer in-play betting promotions specifically for The Ashes and other major events. For example, live betting bonuses, odds boosts for in-play wagers, or cashback on live bets that don’t win are commonly found offers.
Refer-a-friend
The refer-a-friend scheme is popular as it gives two players the opportunity to enjoy some bonus funds: the referred player and the one that referred them. It works when the referrer provides the joining player with a unique link they follow to sign up to the site. Once joined, the new player will receive bonus funds once they’ve fulfilled some simple requirements, usually making a deposit and placing a bet. The existing player will then usually get some bonus funds for their trouble.
Strategies for betting on The Ashes
The Ashes is a long, gruelling series of cricket and it’s important to know the strategies to employ to give yourself the best chance of success. There’s a lot to think about, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some of the major things to consider:
Knowledge is power
It’s crucial to know as much as possible about The Ashes before placing any bets. Australia might be the favourite to win, but a lot more goes into than that. We recommend understanding individual player form by analysing recent performances in domestic and international matches. You should look at things like batting or bowling averages, recent scores, and wickets taken.
Stay in the loop
A lot can happen between now and when The Ashes kicks off, which means there’s always the potential for injuries or other setbacks. Stay updated on team news, including player injuries and potential changes to the playing XI. If, for example, Steve Smith is injured ahead of the series, you might see Australia batting less heavily, which will obviously significantly impact their performance, especially in longer formats like Test cricket.
What’s the weather?
Cricket outcomes are heavily influenced by pitch conditions and weather. We recommend being adaptable and being prepared to adjust your bets based on weather forecasts. You may need to assess the state of the pitch, as well as weather forecasts, to gauge potential impacts.
In-play options are there to be used
In-play betting can significantly boost your bankroll when used properly. If you’ve done your research and you’re keeping track of the action as it unfolds, you could well place an in-play bet that nets you a tidy profit. Momentum is bound to shift for such a long game of cricket, so make sure you utilise this very handy tool.
Don’t get LBW (lose bankroll & wages)
Excuse the pun, but this is still important. Before placing a single bet, ask yourself what you can afford for the tournament. It’s easy to see potential profits and lose control, but you should think whether you would be okay with losing money, not happy if you’re making it. A good thing to do, first and foremost, is setting yourself a budget for the series, with daily limits you adhere to. If in doubt, betting sites in Ireland often provide responsible gaming tools, like spending caps or timeouts, that can seriously help exert greater control over your money.
FAQ on The Ashes
What’s the format of The Ashes?
How is The Ashes event format set up?
The Ashes is a Test cricket series played between England and Australia. The series typically consists of five Test matches, with the team holding the Ashes needing to be defeated for the opposition to claim the trophy.
What if it’s a draw?
If the series ends in a draw, the holding team retains the trophy.
How long is a Test match?
A Test match typically lasts for five days, with three sessions of cricket being played per day.
Where are The Ashes held?
The series is hosted by both England and Australia, with each country alternating every tournament. The next tournament will be in winter 2025/26 and will be hosted by Australia.
How can I choose the best betting sites for the event?
Any betting site worth their salt will offer markets for Ashes betting, but we recommend choosing the ones that suit you best. To do that, refer to our list of recommended sites and check how we rank each bookie against various factors, like market coverage, odds, quality of promotions, and lesser looked for factors like customer support and payout methods.
What types of promotions are available for The Ashes?
The bookies will want to entice people in and cut through the noise, especially around The Ashes, so watch out for welcome bonuses, enhanced odds, acca insurance and bonuses, and in-play promotions throughout the series.
Do bookies offer betting on a mobile app?
Mobile betting is a very in-demand feature and bookies will want to cater to those demands. Fortunately, most do. Some apps are amazing, some are not. We recommend taking a look at our recommended bookies, especially when we’ve called out the quality of their app.
What payment methods can I use for The Ashes?
This depends on the bookies as some are better than others at supporting a wide range of payment methods. That said, almost all bookies will support debit and credit cards, a lot will offer Apple Pay or Google Pay, and the great ones will go the extra mile with platforms like Revolut, PayPal, Neteller, or Skrill.