Rugby is a game of fierce and intense battles, and edge-of-the-seat play. This means it offers a truly captivating platform for sports betting enthusiasts.
Below, we explore the various types of wagers available to punters.
From straightforward match outcomes to intricate prop bets, we will attempt to unravel the complexities and nuances of rugby betting to help sports betting enthusiasts to place intelligent and winning wagers.
The Match Outcome Bet
This is probably the most common and straightforward type of rugby bet.
Punters predict the winner of a particular match, choosing between the two competing teams or the possibility of a draw. This simple yet thrilling bet allows bettors to root for their favourite team, which is another reason for why it is so popular.
Match outcome bets are available for both individual matches and tournaments, providing a wide range of betting opportunities all throughout the annual rugby calendar.
Handicap Betting
Handicap betting is another popular option in rugby, especially when there is a clear favourite and underdog in a match.
Bookmakers assign a points handicap to each team in order to level the playing field. Bettors then wager on whether a team will outperform the suggested handicap or fall short of it. For example, if Team A has a -5.5 handicap and Team B has a +5.5 handicap, a wager on Team A would require them to win by six or more points for the bet to be successful.
Handicap betting certainly adds an intriguing element to matches with lopsided odds, which is something many sports betting enthusiasts are drawn to.
Total Points Bets
Total points bets are made by predicting the combined score of both teams at the end of a match.
Bookies start by setting a specific line, and punters then wager on whether the total points scored will be over or under that line.
This type of bet does not require predicting the match winner, making it a popular choice for those seeking an alternative option.
Try Scorer Bets
Try scorer bets focus on predicting which player will score a try during a match.
Punters can select specific players or choose from a pool of options provided by the bookies, and these bets can often be placed live.
Since rugby is a team sport with various try-scoring opportunities, this type of bet adds excitement to individual player performances.
Assessing a player’s current form, position, and previous try-scoring records can assist in making informed selections when placing this type of wager.
Prop Bets
You just have to love a prop bet.
State of Origin betting and other rugby matches feature prop bets that include a wide range of unique and diverse wagering options. These bets go beyond the traditional match outcomes and delve into specific events or occurrences within a game.
Some examples of prop bets include predicting the first team to score, the method of the first score (try, penalty, drop goal), the team to kick the first successful penalty, etc.
Prop bets offer a chance for punters to explore lesser-known aspects of the game and potentially monetise their knowledge of specific teams or players.