What is a Double Stakes About Bet?
In the vast and varied world of sports betting, certain bet types offer punters a strategic way to increase their potential returns while controlling their risk. One such bet is the Double Stakes About (DSA) bet — a more aggressive variation of the Single Stakes About bet. While not as commonly used as singles, doubles or accumulators, the Double Stakes About bet is a smart option for punters who have two strong fancies and want to maximise their potential profit if both selections win.
This article will guide you through exactly what a Double Stakes About bet is, how it works, and when it might be a suitable choice for your betting strategy.
What is a Double Stakes About Bet?
A Double Stakes About (DSA) bet is a type of conditional or “if-cash” bet involving two selections. It’s similar in structure to a Single Stakes About (SSA) bet, but with one major difference: if the first selection wins, the second selection is backed with double the original stake.
In total, a DSA bet consists of:
- A single bet on selection A.
- A conditional single on selection B, at double the original stake, if A wins.
- A single bet on selection B.
- A conditional single on selection A, at double the original stake, if B wins.
So, it’s two singles and two conditional bets, just like an SSA — but in this case, the conditional bets are placed using twice the original stake rather than matching the original amount.
How Does a Double Stakes About Bet Work?
Let’s break it down with a practical example.
Suppose you place a £10 Double Stakes About bet on two football matches:
- Selection A: Arsenal to win at 2/1
- Selection B: Liverpool to win at 3/1
Your DSA bet covers:
- £10 on Arsenal to win.
- If Arsenal wins, £20 (double stake) is placed on Liverpool.
- £10 on Liverpool to win.
- If Liverpool wins, £20 is placed on Arsenal.
So, you are staking £20 in total (£10 on each selection), but potentially committing an additional £40 in conditional stakes — which are only placed if the first bet in each pair wins.
Here’s what would happen in different scenarios:
Scenario 1: Both selections win
- Arsenal wins at 2/1: returns £30
→ £20 then placed on Liverpool at 3/1 = returns £80 - Liverpool wins at 3/1: returns £40
→ £20 then placed on Arsenal at 2/1 = returns £60
Total return = £30 + £80 + £40 + £60 = £210
Profit = £210 – £20 (initial stake) = £190
Scenario 2: Only Arsenal wins
- Arsenal wins at 2/1: returns £30
→ £20 then placed on Liverpool, who loses = £0 - Liverpool loses = £10 lost
Total return = £30
Profit = £30 – £20 stake = £10
Scenario 3: Only Liverpool wins
- Liverpool wins at 3/1: returns £40
→ £20 then placed on Arsenal, who loses = £0 - Arsenal loses = £10 lost
Total return = £40
Profit = £40 – £20 stake = £20
Scenario 4: Both lose
- Both singles lose = £20 total loss
Total return = £0
Advantages of a Double Stakes About Bet
1. Enhanced Profit Potential
If both selections win, a DSA can return significantly more than a standard double or SSA bet, thanks to the increased stake on the second leg.
2. Partial Cover
Unlike an accumulator, you’re not relying on both selections winning for a return. Even if only one wins, you still get paid for that winning single.
3. Strategic Flexibility
The conditional element allows you to structure your bet based on confidence in both selections, while the double stake increases exposure when your picks are successful.
Disadvantages of a Double Stakes About Bet
1. Complexity
This isn’t a beginner-friendly bet. It requires a solid understanding of conditional betting and how the sequencing of bets works.
2. Increased Risk on Second Leg
If your first selection wins but the second loses, you not only lose the second conditional bet — you lose twice your original stake on it.
3. Not Widely Offered Online
Some online bookmakers may not offer DSA bets directly. They are more common in traditional betting shops or via telephone betting.
When Should You Use a Double Stakes About Bet?
A DSA bet is ideal when:
- You have two strong selections and are confident in both.
- You want to boost returns beyond what an SSA or standard double can offer.
- You want partial protection in case only one selection wins.
- The order of events allows for conditional betting (e.g., horse races or football matches staggered throughout the day).
Summary
The Double Stakes About bet is a clever and aggressive betting option for punters looking to get more from two confident selections. It blends the simplicity of singles with the potential returns of a double, while the conditional nature introduces an element of strategy and control.
However, it’s not without risk. The double stake on the conditional leg can work both for and against you, so careful selection and bankroll management are essential. For experienced punters who understand the mechanics, the DSA bet can be a powerful weapon in the betting arsenal.