Strong Sydney clubs to influence record year of punting this NRL season
PUNTERS are expected to outlay a staggering $650 million on rugby league this season — a record for betting on the game in Australia.
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PUNTERS are expected to outlay a staggering $650 million on rugby league this season — a record for betting on the game in Australia.
Bookmakers predict $600 million will be wagered on the NRL and another $50 million on State of Origin.
No wonder betting agencies advertise heavily on games through print, electronic and digital platforms.
There are about 25 licensed bookmakers throughout Australia accepting bets on rugby league, the largest of which is still the TAB.
The Daily Telegraph contacted a number of these agencies and determined punters would bet around $20 million on each NRL round.
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The three State of Origin games are expected to attract around $17 million worth of bets apiece.
The betting frenzy is believed to have something to do with the fact Sydney clubs look very strong this season.
“The Sydney clubs have all been well backed and that is always a sign of strong interest,” TAB spokesman Matt Jenkins said.
“The Eels are the best backed to win the premiership. The Roosters and Cowboys share good interest.
“The Bulldogs and Souths are next fancied.
“In possibly the most interesting betting trend, the Tigers are attracting more interest than the Broncos.”
Another bookmaker said: “Rugby league is always dominant for us during winter.
“Other sports do well for us but nothing quite like rugby league. Punters come from everywhere.
“We haven’t stopped this week. You certainly know when the rugby league season is about to kick off.”
Ladbrokes accepted one bet from a courageous punter who outlaid $9000 on Newcastle to make the finals.
TAB punters are also tipping Newcastle to charge up the ladder, and for Brisbane to miss the finals.
North Queensland are the hot fancies with TAB punters to win the NRL premiership, and they like St George Illawarra and Canterbury to reach the finals.
They also believe Penrith will miss the finals and the New Zealand Warriors will claim the wooden spoon.
Aside from the TAB and Ladbrokes, other dominant bookmakers include William Hill, Sportsbet, CrownBet, Ubet and bet365.
Originally published as Strong Sydney clubs to influence record year of punting this NRL season
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