All eyes on last four in World Cup
RUGBY League has been close to my heart over the past few years thanks to my decision to sponsor the Betfred Super League.
But after that pulsating Grand Final, when Saints beat Salford at Old Trafford, I’ve been taking a keen interest in all that’s been going on in the other code’s World Cup in Japan.
Few would argue that we have now got a last four in New Zealand, England,
South Africa and Wales who are true rugby nations that fully deserve their spots in the semi-finals.
Like everyone else, I’ll be glued to the telly on Saturday morning when Eddie Jones’ heroes try to get past what even he admits is the world’s greatest team… the All Blacks.
I’m convinced the tournament’s outright winner will be whoever claims victory on Saturday.
Betfred have New Zealand 5/6 favourites to lift the trophy, with England a 9/2 shot – while South Africa, who face 8/1 outsiders Wales, are 3/1.
Whatever happens, we are in for a tremendous weekend of rugby union action. The best backstory I’ve read about England concerns Kyle Sinckler, the bad boy from London who is proving to be an absolutely world-class prop.
He’s showing the sport is quite capable of attracting players from all kinds of backgrounds – and his impact on the big stage has even led to a boost in numbers turning up at his local club, the Battersea Ironsides, who not so long ago had to borrow players to put out a first XV.
Finally, I did go public last week and say I’d take Sunday’s 1-1 scoreline at Old Trafford.
Liverpool are still 4/5 favourites for the title, with City cut to 11/10 after that business-like win at Crystal Palace.
As for United, we’re 500/1 for the title.