In our previous article Types of Rugby World Cup Betting Markets we gave examples of some of the types of bets that can be placed at the Rugby World Cup 2015.
In the below article we look at some of the favourite Rugby World Cup teams as well as previous rugby betting statistics and facts. All of which are useful when taking part in rugby betting.
For a rugby betting enthusiast, it is first however relevant to look at the statistics, bear in mind that the Rugby World Cup 2015 is taking place in England this year.
- The host team has played in the finals five times out of the seven Rugby World Cups. The home team has been the victor three of those five times. The two hosts that did not reach the finals were Wales and France. If rugby betting superstitions are anything to go by then if England reaches the final, they stand a good chance of being the overall winner.
- England has made the Rugby World Cup final three of the seven times, and has won it once.
- South Africa have been in the final two of the five Rugby World Cups they have played, going on to win in both instances. Statistically speaking therefore if South Africa were to reach the final, chances are high that they will go on to win.
- France have made the final three times and have never won.
Below we briefly outline the top teams.
New Zealand
The number one team in the world is this years favourite to win the Rugby World Cup. Over the last 2 years they have only lost one game. Rugby betting enthusiasts around the world are watching New Zealands form and fitness and keeping a close eye on key players such as Richie McCaw and Conrad Smith.
Betting Odds: 13/10
South Africa
Second favourites seem to be South Africa and many punters are looking to exert their rugby betting skills on the Springboks. They are strong and talented however rugby betting experts are asking whether they have the same form and fitness that led them to win in 2007. If the pool games and quarter final go to plan, then the Springboks will play New Zealand in the semi-final. Many people believe whoever wins this will ultimately win the Rugby World Cup.
Betting Odds: 5/1
England
England is one of two teams to have beaten New Zealand since the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Given that this year they are playing on home soil and have a points machine in George Ford , rugby betting punters are eyeing them out as Rugby World Cup winners.
Betting Odds: 9/2
Ireland
Ireland have been one of the strongest teams in the Northern Hemisphere for some time and in 2013 came very close to beating the All Blacks. They are the 2015 Six Nations champions and carry this form and confidence into the Rugby World Cup. Some analysts are picking an Ireland versus New Zealand final.
Betting Odds: 10/1
Australia
Australia, a firm southern hemisphere favourite have won the Rugby World Cup twice however this year rugby betting fans seem to be passing on placing their bets on Australia to win due to their lack of performance over the last few years. However, with good betting odds, they might be worth a punt.
Betting Odds: 8/1
France
France seem to have quite a maverick style when playing in the Rugby World Cup but given their track record of losing their cool in the finals, as well as never having actually won a Rugby World Cup most experts are not really considering them as a rugby betting favourite to win this year.
Betting Odds: 20/1
For the latest rugby betting odds visit: Keith Ho BetXchange
For specialized and comprehensive betting on rugby, including the Rugby World Cup 2015, visit Keith Ho BetXchange for the most competitive prices and the largest sports betting options available in South Africa.
Read More: Top Try Scorer for the Rugby Wolrd Cup 2015
*Betting odds at time of publication
