Handicap betting is a popular and more advanced form of betting in rugby that aims to level the playing field between two teams of different perceived strengths. This type of betting can be an attractive choice for bettors who want to find value in matches where one team is heavily favored. In this article, we’ll explain how handicap betting works in rugby, discuss its advantages and disadvantages, and provide examples to help you understand this betting option better.
Understanding Handicap Betting in Rugby
In handicap betting, the bookmaker gives a virtual head start (positive handicap) to the underdog and a virtual deficit (negative handicap) to the favorite. This handicap is expressed in points and is designed to make the match more even in terms of betting, with the odds for both teams being closer to even money (2.00).
For example, if the New Zealand All Blacks are playing against Japan, the bookmaker may offer a handicap of -28.5 points for New Zealand. This means that for a bet on New Zealand to win, they must win the match by at least 29 points. Conversely, if you bet on Japan with a +28.5 point handicap, your bet will win if they win, draw, or lose by less than 29 points.
Advantages of Handicap Betting in Rugby
Handicap betting in rugby offers several advantages:
- Better odds: Handicap betting can offer better odds for matches with a clear favorite, as the handicap levels the playing field and brings the odds closer to even money.
- More exciting matches: With the handicap in place, even matches with a strong favorite can become more competitive and exciting from a betting perspective.
- Increased betting options: Handicap betting provides an additional way to bet on rugby matches, giving you more options to choose from.
Disadvantages of Handicap Betting in Rugby
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
- Complexity: Handicap betting can be more complex than traditional match winner bets, especially for beginners, as it involves understanding the handicap system.
- Requires deeper analysis: To make informed handicap bets, you need to have a good understanding of the teams’ form, head-to-head records, and playing styles, as well as the likely margin of victory.
Example of a Handicap Bet in Rugby
Let’s consider an example of a handicap bet in rugby:
- In an upcoming Rugby Championship match, South Africa is playing against Argentina.
- The bookmaker offers the following handicap betting options with fractional odds:
- South Africa -12.5 points: 10/11
- Argentina +12.5 points: 10/11
- You believe that South Africa will win comfortably, so you place a £110 bet on South Africa -12.5 points at 10/11 odds.
- South Africa wins the match with a score of 35-17, meaning they won by 18 points.
- As South Africa won by more than 12.5 points, your handicap bet wins.
- Your return would be: (£110 x 10/11) + £110 = £210 (including your original stake).
Conclusion
Handicap betting is an exciting and potentially rewarding way to bet on rugby matches, offering better odds and more options for matches with clear favorites. By understanding how handicaps work and analyzing the teams’ form and likely margin of victory, you can make more informed bets and potentially find value in the market.
As with all forms of gambling, it’s crucial to bet responsibly and within your means. Handicap betting can be more complex than traditional match winner bets, so make sure you fully understand the system before placing your bets. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages of handicap betting in rugby, you can decide if this betting option is right for you and potentially enhance your rugby betting experience.