How to win IPL-related special contests on a fantasy cricket app

The IPL 2025 season is in full swing, and alongside the high-octane action on the field, fantasy cricket fans are locked into their screens, aiming to win big on their favorite cricket match app. With special contests offering bigger rewards and limited entries, the possibility of winning is higher than ever. But winning these contests takes more than just picking your favorite players; it’s about smart strategy, timely decisions, and knowing the IPL cricket game inside out. Here’s how to win special fantasy contests during this year’s IPL:

Know the Contest Inside Out

Special contests often differ from regular fantasy games. Some offer massive prize pools, while others might limit the number of participants or introduce unique formats like streak challenges, reverse points, or high-risk, high-reward multipliers. Some may even reward performance over a series of games rather than a single match.

Before you even select your team, take a moment to understand what kind of contest you’re entering. Read the rules, review the scoring system, and look at past winning teams. Each format requires a slightly different approach, so tailor your strategy accordingly. If you’re entering a “winner-takes-all” format, you’ll need a more aggressive, risk-friendly team than in a consistent points leaderboard contest.

Research Trumps Reputation

One of the biggest mistakes players make is choosing big-name cricketers solely based on reputation. While popular players can perform consistently, fantasy cricket points depend heavily on current form, matchups, and pitch conditions.

A lesser-known domestic player in great form can often outscore a superstar. For example, in IPL 2024, players like Tilak Varma and Jitesh Sharma delivered high-impact fantasy performances at a fraction of the selection rate of more popular picks.

Check recent scores, strike rates, and performance at specific venues. Research the opposition’s weaknesses: is a certain bowler expensive in the powerplay? Does a particular batter struggle against spin? Use those insights to your advantage. In IPL cricket, the edge often goes to those who study deeper.

Build Smart, Balanced Teams

The most successful fantasy teams are the ones that find the right balance. Don’t stack your side with just top-order batters or star bowlers. All-rounders, especially those who contribute in multiple phases of the game, are gold in the fantasy world. Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, and Rashid Khan often deliver points with both bat and ball, offering dual value in a single match.

Also, pick a few “differential” players (those with low selection percentage) to stand out in contests. If they perform well, you move ahead of the pack quickly.

Captain and vice-captain choices are particularly crucial. Since they earn double and 1.5x points respectively, these decisions can make or break your game. Choose players who are likely to be involved throughout the IPL cricket game, like openers, death-over bowlers, or all-rounders, rather than relying solely on star value.

Stay Updated and Adapt Fast

Most cricket match apps let you edit your team until the match begins, which is a huge advantage. Use this window wisely. Check the toss results, confirmed lineups, and even last-minute injury news. If a player is benched or batting in a different position than expected, make the necessary changes immediately.

Also, always keep an eye on the pitch report and weather forecast. Some stadiums favor high scoring while others support bowlers. Tailoring your team to match conditions gives you a strategic edge that many casual players overlook.

In double-header scenarios, staying updated becomes even more important. Managing multiple matches in a day requires efficiency, set reminders and have a quick checklist before every deadline.

Diversify Your Entries

If you’re playing in multiple contests, especially high-reward or mega leagues, consider entering more than one team with variations. Use one team as your “safe” pick based on stats and recent form, and build another with riskier but high-upside choices. This way, even if one team underperforms, the other might hit big.

Even in low-entry contests, variations can give you an advantage if you’re choosing gut-feel players others might overlook. So make sure to track the performance of each team you enter: review what worked, what didn’t, and adapt going forward.

Think Long-Term, Play Consistently

Many fantasy cricket platforms reward users who play consistently across the tournament. Some special contests offer cumulative prizes based on your overall performance across matches. Even if you don’t win big every day, consistent scoring and smart play can put you in the running for these longer-term rewards.

Playing every match also gives you a better read on player form, team combinations, and ground conditions. This knowledge compounds over the tournament and can give you a major advantage by the time the playoffs arrive.

So don’t skip matches or play randomly. Build momentum, learn from mistakes, and improve with every game. Over time, this strategy pays off, especially during the playoffs, when games get more intense and tactical.

Conclusion

Winning an IPL cricket game on a fantasy platform is always about preparation, timing, and using every tool your cricket match app gives you. From analyzing stats and reading pitch reports to adapting after the toss and choosing the right captains, every small decision adds up.

So if you want to win big in IPL 2025’s special contests, treat it like the strategic game it is. Do your research, trust your planning, and most importantly, enjoy the game—both on and off the field.