Rugby betting has exploded in popularity in recent years, with fans increasingly looking to put some money on their favourite teams and players. However, with so many bookmakers now offering online rugby betting, how do you know which sites are the best for UK punters?
In this article, we take an in-depth look at the leading contenders when it comes to the top rugby betting sites for UK customers. We analyse the key factors such as odds, markets, bonuses and user experience across various bookies to provide a definitive rankings guide. Read on for our picks of the very best rugby betting operators around.
What Makes a Good Rugby Betting Site?
When assessing the top rugby betting sites, there are several crucial factors to consider:
- Competitive Odds – The odds offered will ultimately determine how much you stand to win, so sites with better prices give you a distinct advantage.
- Range of Markets – The more betting markets there are, the more ways you have to use your rugby knowledge to try and make successful wagers.
- Bonuses and Promotions – Attractive sign-up offers and regular promotions allow you to maximise your betting bankroll.
- In-Play Betting – Live, in-play betting opens up many opportunities during matches to place bets as the action unfolds.
- Mobile Experience – With so much sports betting being done on smartphones, mobile apps and mobile sites are important.
- Trust and Reputation – You need to feel your money is safe and bets will be honoured at reputable bookies.
Top 3 Rugby Bookmakers in UK
William Hill
William Hill provides betting options for both Rugby League and Rugby Union matches. For League, they offer wagering on competitions like the NRL, Super League, European Challenge Cup, State of Origin, and the Rugby League World Cup. The Union section includes betting markets for tournaments such as the Six Nations, Premiership Rugby, Heineken Champions Cup, Rugby World Cup, and other events globally. William Hill has a significantly larger selection of wagering markets available for Union matches, with around 800 compared to about 150 for League contests. Overall, rugby fans can find extensive betting opportunities through William Hill for major competitions in both codes of the sport.
Vbet
The online sportsbook Vbet allows users to wager on both Rugby League (13s) and Rugby Union (15s), with each code having its own dedicated section. Upcoming matches across various competitions can be found in the pre-match offerings or through the calendar tool. Vbet covers domestic leagues like England’s Premiership, France’s Top 14, Australia’s NRC, and Russia’s Professional Rugby League. They also offer odds on international tournaments such as the Rugby World Cup. For rugby matches, bettors can choose from over 250 different wagering markets.
Bet365
The sportsbook Bet365 allows rugby fans to wager on both codes of the sport – Rugby League (13s) and Rugby Union (15s). In the 13s section, popular competitions like Australia’s NRL and England’s Super League can be bet on. For Union (15s), Bet365 covers prestigious tournaments including the Six Nations, World Rugby Sevens Series, European Champions Cup, Challenge Cup, and various national leagues across Europe. Users can find enhanced odds promotions for rugby matches under the Bet Boost offers. Bet365 also provides a Bet Builder feature for custom wagers on key rugby fixtures. For major games, over 600 different betting markets are available.
Key Types of Rugby Betting Markets
Whether you are new to rugby betting or a seasoned pro, knowing the main betting markets is crucial:
Match Winner
The most straightforward bet – pick the team you think will win the match in normal time.
Handicap Betting
Gives the underdog a virtual head start to level the playing field, for more appealing odds.
Over/Under Points
Bet on how many total points will be scored in the game by both teams combined.
First Tryscorer
Predict which player will touch down the first try of the match.
Half-time/Full-time
Get bets on the leading team at half-time combined with the match result.
Prop Bets
On anything from total penalties to how many tries an individual player will score.
Familiarising yourself with these common rugby betting markets will help you profit. More advanced markets and strategies can be incorporated later as your experience grows.
Bet Responsibly on Rugby
While betting can increase the excitement and interest around rugby matches, it should always be done so responsibly. Never bet more than you can comfortably afford to lose, and set a budget.
If you feel you have a problem controlling your gambling, organisations like GamCare offer valuable support and helplines. Remember that over the long run, the bookies have an edge, so don’t chase losses.
Maintaining discipline is vital – be selective with your wagers, don’t just bet for the sake of it. With sensible habits, rugby betting can provide added engagement with a sport you love as a fan.
In ending this, Rugby betting has become enormously popular, and the leading UK bookmakers now cater extensively to fans of both league and union. Comprehensive markets, competitive prices and tempting bonuses are available.
Our top sites like William Hill, Vbet, Bet365 each have unique strengths. Focus on exploiting promotions, shopping for the best odds, and researching teams and players. Responsible betting habits are also key.
By following these tips and joining one of the highly-rated bookies above, you’ll be well set up for successful rugby betting. Just enjoy the thrill of the game, rather than expecting to get rich. With informative research and measured bets, rugby wagering can enhance your fandom.
