Want to test your betting IQ on one of the most physical, thrilling and high-stakes sports in the world? Betting on rugby union is right up your alley!
Not only does rugby (a.k.a. rugby union) betting offer fantastic odds and a plethora of underrated betting markets, but it also provides the exciting opportunity to wager on matches from around the world.
In this article, we’ll give experienced bettors such as yourself a few choice betting markets to try. Then, to ensure you get the most out of your bets, we’ll also explain the most important rugby union betting strategies to consider before placing your wager.
Let’s go!
Advanced rugby union betting markets
Highest scoring half
The highest scoring half is a betting market where you predict which half will have the most points.
For instance, in a match between England and Wales, you can wager on the first half if you believe both teams will come out guns blazing and score most of their points in the first 40 minutes.
Conversely, if you think the teams will save their best for the last and produce a point scoring fiesta in the last 40 minutes, you’ll bet on the second half.
You can also bet on the points scored in both halves being equal, which generally has far superior odds but is trickier to pick.
Handicap betting
Handicap betting in rugby union balances the perceived differences in team abilities by assigning a handicap to level the playing field.
For example, if New Zealand (favourite) is playing against Italy (underdog), New Zealand might have a negative points handicap that reads -7.5. This means they would need to win the match by 8 or more points for a bet on them to pay out.
Italy, on the other hand, might get a positive points handicap that reads +7.5 points. This means that even if Italy loses the match but the point difference is 7 or less, a bet on Italy will pay out.
Simply put, handicap betting levels out the odds for both teams by adding or subtracting points from their final scores, which gives both teams an equal probability of victory.
This type of rugby union betting is ideal if you want great odds on a favourite team.
First try scorer
First try scorer betting in rugby union is a popular bet type where you predict which player will score the first try of the match.
The excitement and suspense of predicting the first scorer draw many to this betting option. It also offers excellent value, as the odds on first try scorer bets are higher than most other markets.
One key tip when betting on this market is to study the past form of an individual player’s performance, paying particular attention to prolific try scorers who often have the highest likelihood of crossing the try line first.
Race to 10 points
Race to 10 points is a bet type in rugby union where you predict which team will reach 10 points first.
This betting option can sometimes feel like you’re betting on a race… and in a way, that’s exactly what you’re doing. In short, it doesn’t matter what the final score is – it’s all about who gets to 10 points first.
Note that your wager will be void if the match is a low-scoring affair and no team cracks the 10 points threshold.
Draw no bet
Draw no bet is a safeguarding market in which you back a team to win with provision that your stake is refunded if the match ends in a draw.
This method serves as insurance, lowering the risk of a loss. However, it’s important to note that your stake is forfeited if your team loses.
A draw no bet wager is a prudent option for situations where the match has a high probability of ending in a draw, but you still want to maintain an element of thrill.
3 quick tips for advanced rugby union betting
Understand the importance of weather
The weather can have a significant impact on a rugby match, affecting the flow of the game and the scoring rate. Be sure to check the weather forecast before making your wager; wet and windy conditions generally favour more defence-oriented teams.
Factor in home advantage
The venue of the match can often influence a team’s performance. Like most sports, rugby teams tend to perform better at their home ground due to familiarity with the pitch and home crowd support, so keep this in mind when betting.
Manage your bankroll wisely
No matter how confident you are in a bet, avoid the temptation to stake a large portion of your bankroll on a single wager. Diversify your bets and always practice responsible gambling to ensure continued enjoyment of the sport and betting.
Rugby betting for advanced bettors: key takeaways
As you delve deeper into rugby union betting, remember that knowledge and strategy are essential to success.
Utilise advanced betting markets and manage your bankroll to optimise returns. With practice and patience, you can turn your passion for this thrilling sport into a rewarding betting experience.
Happy punting!
