Delegate Jason Barrett placed the first bet, putting down a $50 wager on the West Virginia Mountaineers to win the national championship at odds of 60-1.

According West Virginia MetroNews, Barrett said: “We have really done it right in this state and certainly Pennsylvania and others. If it’s going to be successful in their states, they need to look at what we did and model after us.”

The sportsbook is operated by William Hill US, as part of its sports betting expansion, which includes partnerships with 11 casinos in Mississippi, with talks taking place in 14 other US states.

The West Virginia Lottery Commission, the state's gaming regulator, is expecting up to $17m in revenue for sports betting proceeds.  

It is reported Greenbrier Resort is likely to be the next casino in the state to offer sports betting, using operator FanDuel’s sportsbook.