Rugby betting may not have the same following as the MLB, NBA, or NFL, but plenty of bettors still enjoy placing wagers on this unique ball sport. As a result, many state-regulated sportsbooks in the US offer wagering on rugby and provide several lines and excellent odds.
In this guide, we take a deep dive into the world of rugby betting, highlighting and reviewing the best online sportsbooks in the state for wagering on rugby, discussing the different types of bets you can wager, and looking at how to sign up with these sites. So, keep reading to find out more.
BetMGM
Get up to $1,000 back as free bets if your first bet on the sportsbook loses
Draft Kings Sports
20% Deposit match of up to $1,000 or Get $150 in bonus bets
FanDuel
$1,000 No-Sweat First Bet
BetRivers
$500 bonus bet on your first sports wager
Pointsbet Sports
Earn up to $500 in second chance bets when you place bets for five consecutive days after signing up
When looking for the best legal rugby betting sites available to bettors across the US, you won’t do better than those listed below. Our experts have tried all the options and, through their research, have picked the top five rugby betting sites. So, let’s look:
Although having a list of the best Rugby betting sites is informative, understanding what each one has to offer in terms of features, odds, customer service, and payment options makes it even simpler to find the sportsbook that most suits your needs. So, let’s look at the mini-reviews below.
BetMGM came to life on July 30, 2018, when MGM Resorts International and Entain Holdings signed a joint venture deal. Since then, the sportsbook has expanded, offering online, mobile, and in-person wagering to bettors in the United States. Today, BetMGM is licensed to operate in over 20 states across the US.
Ranking as one of the best Rugby betting sites on our list, BetMGM stands out for its diverse selection of sports markets and betting lines that range from futures, totals, spreads, game and player props, and parlays. Further, the odds are competitive and often generous in comparison to competitor sites, and the betting site ranks as one of the sharpest sportsbooks.
Although BetMGM covers similar markets to sites like FanDuel and DraftKings, it provides a unique feature called “Edit Your Bet,” which allows bettors to edit their wagers after placing them. However, to do this, your bet must meet certain conditions.
BetMGM’s odds are some of the best in the US, competing with those provided by DraftKings. Here, bettors will discover several 20-cent lines. However, the odds on exotic bets and props tend to have a little more juice than most. Additionally, bettors will find BetMGM frequently offers odds boosts and, unlike most other sportsbooks, provides these boosts for single-game parlays. Generally, odds boosts offered by BetMGM enhance the original odds by 20-25%.
When it comes to betting lines, BetMGM offers all the usual options, like spreads, totals, props, futures, and moneylines. However, the sportsbook also offers parlays, particularly a unique One Game Parlay, that allows bettors to create a parlay based on several sections of one game.
When it comes to funds, bettors visiting BetMGM will find that the rugby betting site offers several ways for bettors to deposit and withdraw funds, including Visa, MasterCard, Echeck, online transfer, PayNearMe, Play+ and eWallets like PayPal and Skrill. However, while the sportsbook does not accept cryptocurrency payments, it offers more transaction options than DraftKings.
BetMGM keeps its minimum deposits to a low of $10 for all methods, with a slightly higher minimum withdrawal of $20. While there are zero transaction fees applied, most withdrawals will take between one to five business days to process.
BetMGM provides an outstanding customer service experience. Firstly, bettors with more general questions can look at the in-depth “Help” section provided by the website. However, those with more complex queries can contact the 24/7 live chat representatives for instant resolutions. We find this around-the-clock service impressive, as other sites like BetRivers only offer support during specific hours.
In addition to live chat, BetMGM also offers an email helpline. Since the service team is prompt and responsive, bettors can expect a reply via email within two business days.
When it comes to ongoing promotions for existing bettors, BetMGM has several. By visiting the “promotions” page, bettors can pick up Risk-Free Prop Bets on specific sports and Parlay Profit Boosts. Additionally, BetMGM offers Bet Insurance year-round, which works similarly to a risk-free bet, although it usually applies to a particular league.
Finally, when bettors create an account with BetMGM can apply to join the BetMGM Rewards Program, which offers exciting ways to gain points and offers unique promotions to bettors as they advance up the tiers.
DraftKings was established in Boston, Massachusetts, in 2012, by three former Vistaprint employees, Jason Robins, Matthew Kalish, and Paul Liberman. The company started small, first offering a one-on-one baseball competition that coincided with Major League Baseball’s opening day in 2012. Since then, DraftKings has expanded to offer Daily Fantasy Sports Betting and traditional sports betting in over 20 US states.
This rugby betting site stands out for several reasons. First, in addition to offering a wide variety of betting lines, including spreads, totals, and props, DraftKings also covers various rugby union events, including the World Cup, Six Nations, and the Currie Cup. However, bettors will also discover it covers a wide assortment of other sports markets, ranking it as one of the best live sportsbooks in the US.
When it comes to other sportsbooks, DraftKings makes its mark by offering some of the best odds and a simple-to-use mobile app. However, compared to sites like FanDuel and BetMGM, it has limited payment options and ongoing promotions.
Rugby betting at DraftKings is exciting and unique. Firstly, the sportsbook offers a selection of betting lines and markets, from moneylines and spreads to game props and alternative point spread wagers. Further, the sportsbook provides unique futures bets and same-game parlays on rugby matches. However, it is important to note that DraftKings is not one of those sportsbooks known for its early release of lines.
Bettors funding their DraftKings accounts will find several options to use. However, these methods typically vary from state to state. Additionally, while DraftKings provides several deposit and withdrawal methods for its DFS section, those offered to rugby betting fans in the sportsbook section are limited. As a result, bettors can fund their accounts using Visa, MasterCard, Discover, PayPal, and electronic gift cards. However, DraftKings offers far more options when it comes to withdrawals, including options like online banking, checks, and wire transfers. But remember, DraftKings may take up to five business days to process payouts.
Although one of the leading rugby betting sites in the US, DraftKings only offers two support options. Firstly, bettors with less pressing queries can send an email to [email protected]. However, if you need something resolved instantly, contacting the live chat team, which operates around the clock, is a better option.
DraftKing’s bonuses are, more often than not, state-specific. This means that when visiting the page for your state, it may not appear as though this rugby betting site has much to offer in the way of rewards compared to sportsbooks like PointsBet or FanDuel. However, bettors can find options like odds boosters and several match deposit rewards on the site.
Besides enjoying these promos, bettors can sign up to join Dynasty, DraftKing’s rewards program.
Another of our top rugby betting sites, FanDuel, has its origins in Scotland and launched in 2009 as a Daily Fantasy Sports betting site. However, when the US repealed PASPA in 2018, the site expanded into the United States and widened its offerings to include regular sports betting. Since then, the sportsbook has picked up licenses to operate legally in 15 US states, including Iowa, Pennsylvania, and Illinois.
Bettors across the US favor FanDuel for its diverse markets, which reach beyond betting lines to include various sports and payment options. For instance, when compared to sportsbooks like DraftKings and PointsBet, FanDuel has one of the most varied selections of payment options.
Although its margins aren’t as low as those offered by DraftKings, FanDuel still impresses with relatively competitive odds, especially for rugby betting. However, where this sportsbook makes its mark is through its diverse selection of betting lines, covering everything from moneylines and spreads to totals, futures, and some of the most exciting options for prop betting.
Finally, the sportsbook covers over 20 sports markets, including rugby, tennis, the NFL, NBA, and MLB, and ranks as one of the top UFC betting sites in the United States.
Another top feature of this rugby betting site is the simplicity it grants bettors when funding their sportsbook accounts. Here, bettors can choose between various options when making deposits and withdrawals, including Green Dot MoneyPak, credit cards, PayPal, FanDuel gift cards, PayNearMe, eChecks, and bank wire transfers.
Further, like DraftKings, FanDuel doesn’t cap deposits, but it does limit withdrawals at a relatively low $10,000. However, the payouts are quick and often processed within 24 hours.
FanDuel ensures its bettors are well taken care of by providing a detailed FAQ section that offers in-depth answers to many of the more general questions a rugby betting fan may have. However, in those instances where a bettor may need more personalized assistance, FanDuel provides a live chat option, which, unlike BetRivers, functions 24/7.
FanDuel offers bettors several exciting promotions and rewards they can pick up by visiting the “Promotions” tab. In addition to same game parlays offered on specific sports, FanDuel also allows bettors to earn cash back through its referral program by referring friends and family to sign up with the sportsbook. Further, these rewards are quick to claim when bettors use FanDuel promo codes.
Gaming brand Rush Street Interactive launched in Chicago in 2015. However, following the repeal of PASPA, the gambling company launched its own sportsbook, BetRivers, in the state of New Jersey. Since then, Bet Rivers has expanded and now offers licensed sportsbooks in 12 states across the US.
BetRivers offers rugby betting fans a range of unique and exciting features that earn it a spot on our list. However, the most impressive aspect of this sportsbook is its live dealer suite and live-streaming of sports events. Further, it offers the lowest wagering requirement of only 1x on its bonuses, making it far simpler for bettors to earn cash back than at sites like Draftkings, which imposes a 15x wagering requirement.
When it comes to odds, those offered by BetRivers are relatively standard and don’t feature the reduced juice offered by DraftKings. However, the lines are fast and cover extensive betting markets, including various props, spreads, totals, and moneylines. Additionally, bettors can wager same game parlays on rugby events.
In comparison to sportsbooks like BetMGM and FanDuel, BetRivers has a somewhat limited selection of sports markets. But it covers all rugby union matches and events, including the World Cup, Six Nations, and the Currie Cup. Further, it ranks as one of the best tennis betting sites in the US.
If you are looking to enjoy rugby betting high roller style, then BetRivers may be the sportsbook for you. For instance, the betting site offers high withdrawal limits that make the $10,000 cap at FanDuel look pitiful, allowing bettors to withdraw a maximum of $25,000 if they use eCheck or Play+. But those using online banking, cash, or PayPal to claim their payouts don’t have a withdrawal limit. However, bear in mind that while most payouts are instant, eChecks can take up to five business days to process.
When depositing or withdrawing funds at BetRivers, bettors have access to options, including Discover, PayNearMe, PayPal, eCheck, Visa, MasterCard, online banking, and Play+.
Bettors with more generalized questions will discover that BetRivers provides an FAQ section that covers a wide range of topics. But those who need more specific answers can chat with the live chat team. However, remember that this service only operates during business hours.
BetRivers provides rugby betting fans with several promotions that include sports-specific free bets, profit boosts, and daily odds boosts. Further, they are quick for bettors to claim using BetRivers promo codes. Additionally, regular bettors may consider joining the loyalty program, which provides rewards in exchange for points that bettors accumulate by placing specific wagers.
Although relatively new to the US, with PointsBet US launching in 2019, the original PointsBet sportsbook established in Australia in 2015. However, the sportsbook has fast gained popularity, and rugby betting fans can find the site in 12 states, including Iowa, Louisiana, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
In addition to being an international brand, it is the only sportsbook to offer the unique betting style known as points betting, which broadens the range of wagers and markets available.
While the rugby betting odds at PointsBet are standard, especially when compared to those at DraftKings, the sportsbook makes up for this by offering a selection of unique betting options and lines, including fun props like Time of First Conversion or Time of First Try.
However, PointsBet may not have a diverse coverage of sports markets, but it does cover all the top rugby events and ranks as one of the best soccer betting sites, along with options like baseball and basketball.
PointsBet has limited transaction options compared to FanDuel. However, the sportsbook covers all the popular options, including PayNearMe, eCheck, online banking with Trustly, and a debit or credit card from Visa or MasterCard. Further, PointsBet stands out for one unique feature – it offers unlimited withdrawals.
Rugby betting fans visiting PointsBet may find they need assistance at one point or another. Luckily, the sportsbook provides three ways for bettors to resolve their queries. Firstly, bettors can visit the site’s FAQ section and look up answers to more general questions. Alternatively, they can send an email to the support team. But since this option can take longer to garner a response, the live chat option, which functions 24/7, is your best bet.
When it comes to promotions, PointsBet provides some of the most diverse options compared to sportsbooks like DraftKings or BetRivers. For instance, bettors can claim bonuses like daily odds boosts, referral promos, and various free bets. Besides ever-changing bonus options, bettors who spend enough time on the site may earn themselves an invite to join the prestigious Diamond Club, a VIP loyalty program packed with rewards.
Rugby betting online works the same as most other forms of sports betting. In this case, bettors sign up with a regulated online sportsbook like BetMGM. Next, they fund their accounts and then head to the sportsbook section to pick the rugby game and team they wish to bet on. Next, they choose their betting line, input their bet value, and finally, click “Place Bet.”
Generally, handicap rugby betting is offered as a spread bet. Usually provided by a sportsbook, when one team has a marginal advantage over the other, the betting site will apply or deduct points, giving the underdog an edge and evening the playing field.
XH forms part of a shorthand code that sportsbooks use in three-way alternative handicap rugby betting. Here, bettors can enjoy a more complex form of wagering, where three possible outcomes are acceptable – a home win (XH), an away win, or a draw (tie).
While all the rugby betting sites on our list are worth visiting, if we had to pick the best one, it would go to BetMGM. In addition to providing competitive odds with reduced juice, the sportsbook covers all rugby union events, offers unique betting lines, and accepts several payment methods. Further, it offers live wagering on rugby matches.
Yes. However, only in some states. When the Supreme Court of the United States repealed PASPA, it opened the doors for states to individually authorize and regulate sports betting. As a result, over 30 US states now offer legal wagering on sports, and it is in these regions that bettors can enjoy legal rugby betting using online sportsbooks like those reviewed in this guide.
When it comes to betting on the rugby league and looking for the best sportsbook for this, comparing the features of each betting site side-by-side makes it easier to find the right option quicker. So, to help you do this, we created the handy table below:
So, is rugby league betting legal in the US? In some states, yes. Since the repeal of PASPA in 2018, states have had the opportunity to authorize sports betting individually. As a result, over 30 of them now offer legal sports and rugby betting. However, it is essential to note that not all of these states offer online or mobile sports wagering, just as not all provide in-person sports betting. As a result, it is essential to check what options each state provides.
Since each of the rugby betting sites we highlight on this list are fully licensed by a gambling commission, they provide secure, trustworthy betting options and fair play.
However, using a secure, regulated sportsbook means bettors must complete a registration form when signing up to wager on these sites. In addition to providing details like your address, email address, and social security number, bettors must create a username and password. While this may all seem rather daunting, it is done as part of the KYC (Know Your Customer) identity verification, set in place to protect the best interests of bettors.
Finally, because the state licenses these sportsbooks, they must adhere to the betting laws outlined in each state’s legislation. For instance, if the state prohibits wagering on NCAA sports or placing prop bets on college players, the sportsbook won’t be allowed to provide this option. So, for example, Louisiana betting sites offer NCAA wagering, while New York betting sites do not. Luckily, there are few to no restrictions as far as rugby betting goes, making it easy to enjoy wagering on the sport.
Finding the best rugby betting site takes some research, but it is well worth the effort if you’re looking for a sportsbook that provides a quality betting experience. Below, we take a closer look at the criteria our experts use to rank the top sportsbooks to help you find your top rugby betting site.
The best rugby betting sites will offer bettors more than just a moneyline bet. Instead, the top sportsbooks provide various lines, including props, totals, spreads, futures, parlays, same-game parlays, and points betting, providing bettors with more ways to win.
The more rugby union events a sportsbook covers, the better it is. As a result, it is always best to check and see which tournaments and games the site covers. For instance, does it provide betting on the Six Nations, the Currie Cup, The Rugby World Cup, and the Rugby Championships?
Leading rugby league betting sites offer several exciting and generous bonuses and promotions for new and existing bettors to enjoy. Further, the range of rewards should extend to cover a few options, from welcome promotions to the best free bets, odds boosters and profit boosters, a loyalty program, and even referral rewards.
Another feature the best rugby betting sites provide is security. In addition to using SSL encryption on the site that safeguards a bettor’s personal and financial details from hackers, the sportsbook should carry a license and offer two-factor authentication in the case of a sports betting app.
The top rugby betting sites make it simple for bettors to deposit and withdraw funds by providing several payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, eWallets, checks, wire transfers, and gift cards. Further, these sites offer low transaction fees and high maximum deposits and withdrawals.
Finally, a rugby betting site worth visiting will provide bettors with a responsive support team that is available 24/7. Whether the sportsbook provides a phone-in line or a live chat, providing the option for immediate assistance is always best. Further, having an email contact and an FAQ section for more general queries is also helpful.
Rugby betting is simple and fun to do. Below, we take you though a few short steps that will have you placing your wagers on our top betting sites in no time.
Begin by launching the BetMGM website (or you can use the BetMGM app). Then, select the state you are located in. Next, click the gold “Register” button on the top right of the home page. Next, complete the registration form that opens, by filling in details like your address, email address, and social security number. Finally, click the “Continue” button.
Following registration, you’ll need to verify your BetMGM account. Here you can choose to verify your phone number and BetMGM will send an OTP to your device, or you can verify your account using email. If you choose the latter, open your email inbox and the mail sent to you by the sportsbook. Then, click the link inside to verify your new account before signing back into BetMGM with your new username and password.
The next step is to deposit funds into your BetMGM account. So, click the green “Deposit” button on the top right of the home page (this will only come up when you are signed in). Then select your preferred payment method from the options provided and type in the amount you wish to deposit. Don’t forget to input your bonus promo code before clicking “deposit.” Finally, follow the prompts to complete your payment.
Once your funds reflect in your BetMGM account, it’s time to start the fun part – wagering. So head to the sportsbook tab and find the rugby game you want to wager on. Then, type in your bet amount onto the bet slip on the right of the screen. Lastly, hit “Place Bet.”
Typically, rugby betting refers to placing bets on the final results of a rugby match or which team will score the most tries and conversions. However, bettors wagering on rugby will discover there are countless other ways to bet on the sport, like totals, futures, props, parlays, and spreads.
Besides diverse betting lines, top sportsbooks provide competitive odds on rugby betting events. The betting odds for rugby outline how much a sportsbook will pay out a bettor should they win their wager. Further, the sportsbook generally determines its own odds based on the projected outcome.
While rugby betting sites have three ways in which they display their odds, American, Decimal, and Fractional, the default is usually American Odds. In this case, the sportsbook highlights the favorite (team predicted to win) with a minus sign (-), followed by the amount of money a bettor must wager to win $100. In contrast, a plus (+) sign represents the underdog, followed by the amount a bettor could win off a $100 wager.
For example, if BetMGM offered odds of -325 for the New Zealand All Blacks and +210 for their opponents, the South African Springboks. In that case, if you were to wager $325 on the favorites, the All Blacks, and they won, you’d receive $100. However, if you bet $100 on the Springboks and they won, you’d win an additional $210 on a $100 wager.
When betting on rugby, bettors will discover there is more than one way to wager on the sport. Below, we take a closer look at the various betting lines offered by rugby betting sites and how they work.
Undoubtedly the most common and easy-to-place wager is the moneyline. When rugby betting, the bettor backs the team they predict will win the game outright. Whether covering the Six Nations or the Rugby World Cup, a sportsbook will always offer a moneyline bet.
Here, bettors can put their money on the favorite (the team most likely to win, highlighted with a minus (-) sign) or the underdog (highlighted using a plus (+) sign). For example, say a bettor places a $100 wager on the underdogs, the Springboks (+210), to win. If this team wins, the bettor will receive $210 in winnings.
Point spread betting occurs when the rugby betting site adds handicaps to the underdog team, bringing the margins of the two teams closer together and improving the odds. Generally, this happens when one of the two opponents is significantly better, and the rugby betting odds of the better team are often poor at best.
For instance, a sportsbook may add a point spread of +12.5, which means the underdog has an additional 12.5 points added to the team total. As a result, the favorite must score 13 points more than their opponents to win.
Totals, or over/under bets, allow bettors to predict the final score of both teams combined at the end of the game. In this case, bettors wager on whether they expect the total will be more (over) or less (under) than the rugby betting site’s prediction. So, for instance, if you set a wager that the final score would be over 59.5, and the final score was 60 or above, you’d win your bet.
One of the more exotic bets players can wager at rugby betting sites is prop bets. In contrast to other wagers, prop bets don’t focus on the outcome of a game but rather on happenings throughout the match. Further, props can be player-based, where a wager centers on a specific athlete, like which player from the Irish team will score the first try. Alternatively, bettors can place game props related to the match itself, like how many conversions will be made in the first half of the game.
Generally, when betting on rugby, bettors place wagers that focus on an upcoming game. However, futures bets allow bettors to place long-standing wagers focusing on outcomes like which rugby team will win the Rugby World Cup.
This form of bet is regarded as one of the most risky rugby betting options a bettor can choose. When placing a parlay bet, a bettor makes two or more bets over several games. However, to win a parlay bet, a bettor must win each leg of the wager, as losing even one portion results in the entire parlay folding.
Same Game Parlay
The same game parlay works in the same way as a traditional parlay. Except, instead of placing bets over several games, a bettor places two or three bets over a single game.
Generally, rugby betting sites allow bettors to place pre-game wagers on a match. However, the best sites for betting on rugby allow fans to place wagers on games already in play. Here, bettors can place moneylines, spreads, totals, or props on games that have already started. But keep in mind the betting odds for rugby games already in play are not fixed and fluctuate depending on how the game advances.
Further, the best rugby betting sites live-stream the games on their websites and apps, making it simple for bettors to catch the game in real time, place more accurate live wagers, and follow their bets.
When rugby betting, gaining an edge is easy if you have a few strategies and systems to follow. Below, we review some of the most effective ways to increase your chances of winning when wagering on rugby matches.
Firstly, take the time to weigh up the betting odds rugby sites offer to find the best prices for making your bet. Although the differences in the odds may seem slight, they ultimately make a considerable difference if you win the bet. As a result, signing up with several sportsbooks (like those on our list) makes it easier to quickly place a bet with the sportsbook that provides the best odds for that specific rugby match.
Generally, the public favors a particular team because of national bias, because the team is pitted as the favorite by a significant margin, or because it is a home game. As a result, this misrepresents the betting odds, lowering the odds for the public-backed team to win. Because of this, bettors can find the edge and the best payouts by betting against the public.
Our final system is referred to as hedging. Here, bettors wager on various outcomes, ensuring they win either way. For example, you may bet on France to win their game against South Africa. However, if the odds drop before the game, you may also want to back South Africa to win. As a result, you’ll walk away a winner despite the outcome, offering an effective strategy where there is no clear favorite.
Besides in-depth strategies, having a few tools to determine the bets you want to place will help you enjoy more lucrative rugby betting. So, to help you out, we have gathered the top five tips for betting on rugby below.
One of the easiest ways to boost your edge when betting on rugby is to do your research first. Understanding the teams, their strengths, weaknesses, and how they generally perform against a particular opponent makes it easier to place accurate wagers. Additionally, looking into the betting tips will also help bettors see whether a sportsbook may be skewing the odds.
Top rugby betting sites make it simple for bettors to place unique wagers by offering generous rewards. Promos allow you to place your bets using funds other than those you deposited is a real win, so make the most of it. Further, explore different betting lines and use the bonus to help you learn the ropes so you can expand your betting options and ways to win in the future.
If you’re new to rugby betting, we recommend starting slowly with simpler wagers like moneylines and props. Once you have gained a feel for how things work, it becomes easier to advance to the more challenging betting lines and place more lucrative bets.
Although the underdog may present with far more exciting odds, it is essential to remember that they are the underdog for a reason, and the chances of them actually winning are slim. As a result, we suggest backing the favorite unless there is no clear-cut prediction, in which case it is best to hedge your bet.
It can be tempting to place wager after wager, but this isn’t always the most healthy way to enjoy rugby betting. As a result, we recommend setting a budget and sticking to it by carefully monitoring your bankroll and how you place your wagers.
Rugby betting may not be as popular in the US as baseball betting or backing your favorite football team. However, many top online sportsbooks still cover the top rugby events. Below, we look at some of the most exciting rugby events to wager on.
Unquestionably, the Rugby World Cup is the most noteworthy tournament of the sport. Here, the top rugby teams from across the globe go head-to-head to see who will be the ultimate champion. Although exceptionally popular, this tournament only takes place every four years, hosted by a different country each time.
Another rugby tournament that occurs every four years is the Rugby League World Cup. Australia and New Zealand generally place as the favorites to win the league cup thanks to their unchallenged winning streaks.
In this tournament, six of the best rugby teams from across the northern hemisphere duel it out in an annual round-robin series. Further, The Six Nations sees England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, France, and Italy face off against one another as each team plays the others once, with the team at the top of the table coming out as the winner.
The UK’s primary domestic rugby tournament sees 12 teams, ten from England and two from France, go toe-to-toe between February and September each year. Traditionally, the Super League champions play the NRL champions in the World Club Challenge.
Australia and New Zealand’s annual domestic tournament, The National Rugby League (NRL), sees 16 teams, 15 from Australia and one from New Zealand battle it out. The NRL Grand Final is one of Australia’s most important sporting events.
Another tournament, The Heineken Champions Cup, sees teams from all Six Nations countries participating. However, the team from South Africa will join the ranks in 2022. Teams qualify to enter the tournament via their positions in national leagues and by winning the second-tier Challenge Cup. It takes place every year, beginning with a group stage and ending with a knock-out stage.
The Currie Cup is South Africa’s premier domestic rugby union tournament. From June to October teams representing the various provinces within the country battle it out to win the coveted Currie Cup trophy.
The best rugby betting sites provide new and existing bettors with a selection of exciting promotions. In addition to encouraging new players to sign up, these bonuses reward loyal bettors who continually use the sportsbook. So, let’s look at the top bonuses a rugby betting site may offer.
A match deposit sees a rugby betting site rewarding a bettor for funding their account by matching their deposit up to a specific amount. For example, a sportsbook offering a 100% matched deposit of up to $1,000 will give a bettor depositing $500 an additional $500 to spend. Presently, DraftKings is the only sportsbook that offers a matched deposit bonus.
Generally, risk-free bets allow bettors to place wagers without the chance of them risking their own funds should they lose the bet. For example, FanDuel offers rugby betting fans same-game parlay insurance that will reward a player with $25 if one leg of their parlay wager folds.
The best rugby betting sites offer price boosts that allow bettors to take advantage of improved odds, which increases their profits if they win a bet. Generally, sportsbooks offer unique odds boosts daily, and bettors can find some of the best options at BetMGM.
When visiting a rugby betting site, bettors will find they have several ways to deposit and withdraw funds from their accounts, offering them a great deal of convenience. While most online sportsbooks, like those on our list, accept traditional payment methods like credit cards and debit cards, some also accept eChecks, money orders, and bank wire transfers.
Additionally, many of these sportsbooks also accept Play+ gift cards, and sites like FanDuel allow bettors to fund their accounts using Green Dot MoneyPak. Finally, many also accept more secure eWallet payments from providers like PayPal.
So, for an in-depth look at the various payment options provided by the rugby betting sites on our list, take a look at the table below:
While each of the rugby betting sites on our list offers bettors the opportunity to place wagers from the comfort of home, they also provide betting on the go by introducing some of the best sports betting apps. Generally, these apps are quick and easy to download and take up relatively little space on a device’s memory drive.
Additionally, these apps offer compatibility with several operating systems, including Android and iOS, and thus function seamlessly on various smartphones and tablets. However, bettors should keep in mind that many of these apps use geofencing, prohibiting bettors from placing wagers when visiting states yet to legalize sports betting, keeping them safe and on the right side of the law.
When betting on rugby, new bettors may come across some lingo that doesn’t quite make sense. So, to help you talk the talk when wagering, we compiled the glossary of rugby betting terms below.
Moneyline – NFL betting odds that indicate the payout should either team win the game.
Live Betting – This is where the NFL betting site allows bettors to place wagers on a game already in play.
Dime Bet – this refers to a $1,000 wager.
Hook – This refers to the half-point added to a spread bet. So if the spread is -6 and you add a hook it becomes -6.5.
Dime Line – When the difference in the commission a sportsbook charges on a wager (juice) between odds is ten cents (a dime). For example +110 and -120.
Reduced Juice – When the commission charged by an NFL betting site is lower than the industry standard.
Try/Tries – In rugby, a touchdown is called a try (plural – tries) and equates to five points for the scoring team.
Conversion – A conversion is a kick at the goal that passes between two posts and over the crossbar. The ball must either be place-kicked (to convert a try) or drop-kicked. Further, if the conversion is successful it will earn the team two points.
Favorite – The team predicted to win by the sportsbook or the public.
Underdog – The team playing against the favorite with less favorable odds of winning.
Chalk – Another term for the “Favorite” (The team chalked to win)
Bankroll – The funds a bettor has to wager with.
Fly-half – The most influential player on the rugby pitch, the fly-half is responsible for deciding whether they should run, pass the ball to the centers or kick for position. In other words, they perform a similar action to football quarterbacks.
Hooker – The Hooker is another rugby team position that refers to one of the forwards. Usually, these players wear the number 9 jersey.
Over 30 states across the US offer legal sports betting. However, only some offer retail or in person wagering, making it complex for bettors to know whether retail sportsbooks are available in a state. As a result, bettors will need to do some research to see whether their state offers land-based sports betting and where these establishments are.
While rugby betting may not offer the same draw as wagering on the NFL or NBA, it still has a place in sportsbooks across the country. As a result, the best online sportsbooks offer rugby betting and cover the most popular tournaments and events.
Although all the rugby betting sites on our list are worth visiting, our top pick is BetMGM. In addition to providing competitive odds and diverse betting lines, the sportsbook accepts several payment methods and offers exciting rewards. So, don’t miss placing your next rugby wager. Instead, sign up with BetMGM and claim your welcome bonus.