It’s math! Here’s why you’re struggling to win the Lotto

According to the National Lottery, there are 20 358 520 different combinations that Lotto and Powerball players can play when choosing six out of 52 numbers. The order in which the numbers are matched does not matter in relation to how they are selected.

There is also a 1 in 42 375 200 chance of matching all six numbers to win the maximum jackpot. While some argue that winning the lottery is a matter of luck, a mathematician claims that players can increase their chances of being the lucky one by selecting numbers strategically.

Tonight’s total estimated jackpot sits at R20 million – R9 million for Powerball and R11 million for Powerball Plus.

‘Powerball players reducing their chances’

According to mathematician Dr Nathan Reed, Powerball players may be unknowingly reducing their chances of winning by selecting predictable number combinations.

Reed suggests avoiding consecutive sequences.

“Sequences like 1-2-3-4-5 or 5-6-7-8-9 are surprisingly popular. While they seem unique, many players choose them, increasing the likelihood of shared jackpots,” says Reed.

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However, the 20 winners who shocked the country by matching these numbers would disagree.

On 2 December 2020, the winning numbers of the Powerball were 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 as the bonus number.

According to Ithuba, 20 people played these numbers and shared the R119 million as a result. Ithuba said these sequences were common among players.

It tweeted at the time: “Congratulations to tonight’s 20 winners of the Powerball draw. These numbers may be unexpected, but we see many players opt to play these sequences.”

‘Hot numbers’

Reed told Playcasino.com that there are “hot” numbers that players should not rely solely on.

“Numbers such as 16, 23, and 48 are frequently drawn and thus commonly selected by players. Relying solely on these can lead to overlapping combinations.”

However, again in 2020, a player walked away with R37 million in July after playing the same numbers for the past four years.

His winning numbers were 6, 16, 23, 26, 33 and 48, with a bonus number of 7.

“I have been playing the same numbers for the past four years, not only for Lotto but for Powerball and Daily Lotto,” he told Ithuba at the time.

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“I wanted to play the quick pick selection because I thought I had been playing the same numbers for years and the maximum amount I had won was R1 200 in the daily lotto draw early this year, so I thought maybe it’s time I changed my playing strategy.

“I asked the cashier for quick pick selection, but before I gave her the money, my gut told me that today might be the day I strike it lucky and opted to play the same numbers manually.”

‘Random Powerball numbers’

Reed further suggests utilising the quick pick option.

“Random number generators can help eliminate personal biases, producing less predictable combinations and reducing the chance of sharing a prize,” he says.

“Many players fall into the trap of choosing numbers based on patterns, birthdays, or perceived ‘lucky’ numbers. These selections often overlap with others, increasing the chances of shared winnings. By adopting a more randomised approach, players can enhance their odds of securing the full jackpot.”