How to Bet on Rugby for Beginners
Master rugby betting with our complete guide covering try scorers, handicaps, totals, and strategies specific to SA rugby.
Why Rugby Betting is Perfect for SA Fans
Rugby is South Africa's passion, and betting on our beloved Springboks and local teams makes matches even more exciting. Whether you're watching the Rugby World Cup, URC, or Currie Cup, understanding how to bet smart can enhance your rugby experience.
This guide walks you through every type of rugby bet available, from simple match winners to complex handicaps, with examples using SA teams you know and love.
Rugby Betting Markets Explained
1. Match Winner (1X2)
The simplest bet – just pick who wins the match or if it ends in a draw (rare in rugby).
Example:
Springboks vs All Blacks
- • Springboks to win: 2.10
- • Draw: 21.00
- • All Blacks to win: 1.75
If you bet R100 on the Springboks and they win, you get R210 back (R110 profit).
2. Handicap Betting
One team gets a virtual head start in points. This levels the playing field when one team is much stronger.
Example:
Bulls vs Sharks
- • Bulls -7.5 at 1.90 (Bulls must win by 8+ points)
- • Sharks +7.5 at 1.90 (Sharks must lose by 7 or less, or win)
If final score is Bulls 28-23 Sharks: Bulls won by 5 points. Sharks +7.5 bet wins because 23 + 7.5 = 30.5, which beats 28.
3. Try Scorer Bets
Bet on which player will score a try. Wingers and fullbacks usually have the best odds.
Types:
- • First Try Scorer: Higher odds (e.g., 8.00) – riskier but bigger payout
- • Anytime Try Scorer: Lower odds (e.g., 3.50) – safer bet
- • Last Try Scorer: Similar to first, depends on game flow
Tip: Wingers like Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse are popular choices for anytime try scorer bets.
4. Total Points (Over/Under)
Bet on whether the total points scored by both teams will be over or under a set number.
Example:
Stormers vs Lions - Total Points Line: 48.5
- • Over 48.5 at 1.90 (Total points must be 49 or more)
- • Under 48.5 at 1.90 (Total points must be 48 or less)
If final score is Stormers 28-24 Lions: Total = 52 points. Over 48.5 wins!
Rugby Betting Strategies
Watch for Home Advantage
SA teams playing at altitude (Bulls, Lions) have a significant home advantage. Factor this into your bets.
Consider Weather Conditions
Rain and wind affect scoring. Wet conditions often mean lower totals and more forward-dominated play.
Check Team News
Missing key players (especially fly-halves and locks) can drastically change match outcomes. Always check lineups before betting.
Start with Singles
Avoid the temptation of big accumulators when starting. Master single match bets first, then progress to multiples.
Live Betting Opportunities
Rugby momentum shifts quickly. If a strong team starts slow, live betting can offer great value before they turn it around.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the easiest rugby bet for beginners?
Match winner (1X2) is the simplest bet. Just pick which team will win the match or if it will be a draw.
Can I bet on rugby during the match?
Yes! Live betting (in-play) is available for most rugby matches. Odds change in real-time based on the game action.
What does handicap mean in rugby betting?
Handicap betting gives one team a virtual points advantage/disadvantage. For example, if the Springboks are -7.5, they need to win by 8+ points for your bet to win.
How do I bet on the Rugby World Cup?
You can bet on World Cup matches the same way as regular matches. Sign up at Hollywood Bets, find the Rugby World Cup section, and place your bets.