The Rugby League was founded in 1895 in Northern England. It started when 21 clubs broke away from the Rugby Football Union due to disputes over player compensation, forming the Northern Rugby Football Union, which later became the Rugby League.
Over a century later, the Rugby League has increased in popularity, with Australia and England leading the way. Prestigious competitions like the NRL in Australia and the Super League in Europe feature powerhouse teams, such as the Sydney Roosters, Brisbane Broncos, Wigan Warriors, and St Helens. The tournament has also birthed several star players with impressive skills. James Tedesco, Sam Tomkins, and Joseph Manu are among the finest athletes, known for their unmatched dedication and brilliant performance on the pitch.
VIP programLive gamesMany bonuses24/7 supportSuperb promotionsEsports offersWelcome offersFast payouts24/7 support
Players from United States accepted 
Rugby League is quite popular in the UK and Australia. It’s also the second most-watched spectator sport in England. While it’s a niche tournament in the US, it is gradually gaining recognition thanks to its high-energy gameplay and tactical nature. For punters, Rugby League provides a unique wagering experience, with options to bet on everything from match outcomes to individual player performances and in-play events.
Choosing the right bookmaker is essential to get the most out of it. In this article, I’ll guide you through the top Rugby League online betting sites that offer competitive odds, convenient payment methods, generous promotions, and user-friendly features designed specifically for rugby fans.
Looking to stake money on Rugby League? My list of the best sportsbooks offers incredible options for punters; these recommendations are safe and also provide the best experience to fans of all levels.
Easy to useGreat markets24/7 supportEasy to useMany sportsCash outVariety of oddsMany bonusesCash outMany sportsIn-play modeLive streaming25+ sportsSuperb bonusesEasy to use24/7 supportWelcome offersMobile appsWelcome offersEsports marketLive streamingGreat bonusesEsports offersCash outGreat supportMobile appsLive bettingPrematch lineHigh oddsMany bonusesSince the PASPA ban was deemed unconstitutional in 2018, sports betting has flourished across the United States. As of now, 38 states have legalized it in various forms.
In November 2024 alone, commercial sportsbooks – online and land-based- in 33 states generated $1.67 billion in revenue, according to the American Gaming Association. This figure is an impressive 89.3% jump from what was recorded in November 2023.
Rugby League is one of the fastest-growing sports leagues in the US. While it hasn’t reached the same level of recognition as the NFL or NBA, its exciting gameplay and strong community have boosted its popularity among fans and bettors. The league’s efforts to promote competitive matches and high-quality events have significantly improved its standing with audiences.
This table shows the current legal status of sports betting across US states, helping you understand where betting is permitted.
| State | Online Betting | Retail Betting |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Arkansas | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Colorado | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Connecticut | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Delaware | No ❌ | Yes ✅ |
| Illinois | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Indiana | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Iowa | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Kansas | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Kentucky | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Louisiana | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Maine | Yes ✅ | No ❌ |
| Maryland | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Massachusetts | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Michigan | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Mississippi | No ❌ | Yes ✅ |
| Montana | No ❌ | Yes ✅ |
| Nevada | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| New Hampshire | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| New Jersey | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| New Mexico | No ❌ | Yes ✅ |
| New York | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Ohio | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Oregon | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Pennsylvania | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Rhode Island | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| South Dakota | No ❌ | Yes ✅ |
| Tennessee | Yes ✅ | No ❌ |
| Vermont | Yes ✅ | No ❌ |
| Virginia | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| West Virginia | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Wisconsin | No ❌ | Yes ✅ |
| Wyoming | Yes ✅ | No ❌ |
Licensed bookmakers are legally regulated to provide safe and transparent betting experiences. These operators are vetted by authorities to meet high standards. Discover the best licensed sportsbooks for US punters.
Acca insuranceLive betting24/7 supportIn-play betting40+ sportsLive streamingWelcome offersGreat marketsHigh oddsGreat bonus offersGreat marketsQuick bankingCash outFantasy Sports LeaMassive payoutsOffshore sportsbooks are great alternatives for bettors in states where legal sports betting is unavailable. These international bookmakers offer favorable odds and various ways to wager. Here is the list of the top-rated offshore bookies that cater to US users. In addition to their impeccable services, they are also licensed by reputable iGaming authorities in different regions.
VIP programLive gamesMany bonusesWelcome offersFast payouts24/7 supportGreat supportMobile appsLive betting25+ sportsIn-play betsReliable supportReliable supportCash outHigh oddsSince sports betting became legal in the UK under the Betting and Gaming Act of 1960, it has been a regulated industry. The UK Gambling Commission, established in 2005, oversees licensing and compliance and ensures a healthy environment for bettors. The market has shown consistent growth over the years, too. Revenue in the online sports betting market is projected to reach $4.86 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow further to $5.68 billion by 2029. User penetration is also forecasted to hit 22.2% during this period, reflecting a robust demand.
Rugby League enjoys popularity in the UK, especially in northern England. The sport’s quick session matches and loyal fan base have helped it carve out a significant niche among bookmakers. The league’s structure and frequent competitions give consistent opportunities, so you can engage with it year-round.
Some of the best bookies also make Rugby League betting more accessible and worthwhile to fans of the tournament.
Both bookmakers also cover various other sports, making them ideal for fans who want to mix up their betting activities.
UKGC-licensed bookmakers are held to high standards of fairness, transparency, and security, offering a trustworthy environment for UK punters. Explore my compilation of the best UKGC-licensed operators to find top-rated sportsbooks that not only adhere to UK regulations but also provide world-class betting features.
Acca insuranceLive betting24/7 supportIn-play betting40+ sportsLive streamingBest mobile appsLive streamingMoney-back specialWelcome offersGreat marketsHigh oddsGreat payment optiLive bettingEsports offersOffshore platforms are popular among UK bettors looking to access international markets and unique betting opportunities. They offer unique odds and more diverse betting options. Check out my recommended list of international bookies that are most suitable for UK punters.
Live bettingLoyalty programMobile appWelcome offersMobile apps Esports offersCompetitive odds24/7 supportFast payouts24/7 supportSpecial offersSuperb bet typesReliable supportCash outHigh oddsSports betting in Australia has been legal since the 1980s, with strict regulation by state and territory authorities. The market has experienced substantial growth over the years. In 2023, sports betting generated $5.5 billion in revenue. This figure is projected to increase to $7.3 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2%.
Rugby League is one of the most popular sports in Australia, both for viewing and betting. According to a 2022 survey, 49.9% of regular punters named Rugby League as one of their favorite sports to bet on, second only to Australian Rules Football, which had 58.5%. This number is likely higher now, thanks to the presence of many top-rated bookmakers operating in the country and increasing their focus on Rugby League markets.
To help you find the best options, check out my curated list of bookmakers licensed in Australia. My list includes top-rated sportsbooks that meet all legal requirements and provide a safe betting experience for Australian punters.
In-play betting40+ sportsLive streamingOdds boostIn-play modeFree betsBest exchange platHigh oddsEsports offersCash outFantasy Sports LeaMassive payoutsUnique bet typesMany bonusesFast payoutsLooking for more options? Check out my list of the best offshore bookmakers for Australian residents.
Acca insuranceLive betting24/7 supportSpecial bonusesHigh odds24/7 supportEsports offersCash outLive bettingCrossplay optionsGreat supportMany payment optioMultiple sportsLive sectionSign up offersWhether you’re betting in the US, UK, or Australia, my table of the best Rugby League online bookies by category has you covered. I’ve broken down the top sportsbooks and reviewed them to show you where they are legal and what they are best known for.
| Feature | Sportsbook | Available in the US | Available in the UK | Available in Australia |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Betting Site | bet365 | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Best for Bonuses | William Hill | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Best Mobile App | DraftKings | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Best Payout | Solisbet | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Best Crypto Sportsbook | FreshBet | No ❌ | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ |
| Best for VIP Bettors | Betway | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ | No ❌ |
| Best Betting Exchange | Betfair | No ❌ | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ |
bet365 Website
bet365 is an all-round bookmaker with over two decades of operations. Few platforms can match it if you’re seeking the best experience, especially as a Rugby League fan. You can place short-term bets like first try-scorer and total points and riskier long-term ones like season winners.
In addition to pre-match wagers, its in-play section lets you wager on games as they happen. This allows you to adjust your stake based on how the match is progressing.
To better your in-play wager, the platform shares up-to-date stats, such as possession percentage and tackle counts, and the app also lets you live stream matches. Combine this with favorable odds for both pre-match and live events, and it’s easy to know why this sportsbook is popular among lovers of the sport.
Bet builder feature is equally beneficial as it allows you to customize wagers by combining multiple markets from a match into one slip.
The operator’s cash out tool is another noteworthy thing that made it one of the best Rugby League online sportsbooks. It lets you secure a portion of your winnings or limit losses before a game ends, and unlike some, you can use the cash out tool for pre-match and live events.
Despite its many impressive features, bet365 remains user-friendly. The website’s simple layout makes navigation easy for bettors regardless of their tech skills. The mobile app is also available for iOS and Android users, making it easy to stake on games or check updates from anywhere.
The minimum deposit and withdrawal amounts are $10/ÂŁ5, and transactions can be made using various methods. These include credit/debit cards, wire transfers, ecoPayz, Skrill, Neteller, and PayPal. The wide range of payment options makes managing your account straightforward.
Bet365 also has lucrative promotions for new customers. Depending on your location, you can claim 100% up to $30 in bet credits on your first deposit. If you’re signing up from the UK, you can take advantage of the “Bet ÂŁ10 & Get ÂŁ50” offer.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
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William Hill Website
There is no guarantee of winning in sports betting, which makes bonuses a much-welcome advantage for punters seeking extra value. William Hill is one of the best bookmakers for bonus hunters. When a UK punter signs up and bets a minimum of ÂŁ10, they receive ÂŁ30 in free bets to use on qualifying games. For US users, the first wager of $50 is matched with a $50 bonus.
Additionally, for every $1 you wager, you earn up to 5 points. Accumulate at least 1,000 points, and you can trade them in for $1 in free bets. William Hill also runs time-specific promotions on major events and daily odds boosts, giving you more opportunities to win.
Freebies might be one of William Hill’s biggest selling points, but it’s far from the only one. The platform provides in-depth Rugby League coverage, which gives you access to domestic and international matches. Coverage aside, you also have several betting options like a handicap, first try-scorer, and total points. With this variety, newbies can start with simple ones, while experienced punters can wager on complex markets.
Aside from Rugby League, the bookmaker has more than 70 leagues in its collection, including popular competitions like the Premier League and NBA, as well as niche events like darts and handball.
The minimum deposit is ÂŁ5/$10, while withdrawals start at just ÂŁ5/$1. William Hill supports multiple payment methods, including debit and credit cards, e-wallets like Neteller, ecoPayz, Skrill, and PayPal, as well as bank transfers, Truelayer, and Apple Pay.
For added convenience, the William Hill mobile app is available for both Android and iOS devices. This app makes it easy to place stakes on matches, check odds, and access promotions on the go.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
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DraftKings Website
When naming the leading operators for Rugby League betting, it’s impossible to overlook DraftKings. Founded in 2012, this bookmaker has consistently ranked high when it comes to accessibility. Its website is mobile-optimized, automatically resizing to fit your screen for optimal performance, no matter the device. For an even smoother experience, DraftKings has a dedicated mobile app available on iOS and Android app stores.
The app has been downloaded over 3 million times and has an impressive 4.7 out of 5 star user ratings. Why? Because it’s fast, lightweight, and offers user-friendly navigation. Pages load quickly, making it hassle-free to explore the operator’s features.
Speed isn’t the only thing DraftKings excels at. Rugby League fans have access to several betting options like match winner, total points, and first-try scorer markets. You can even put your money on finer game details like the number of penalties or tackles completed. For those seeking extra engagement, the in-play feature is perfect for real time sports betting. This section is complemented by a live streaming option, which allows you to follow the matches directly.
To bet on Rugby League and the 30+ other sports markets, you must deposit a minimum of $5, and withdrawals can be made with as little as $1. Accepted payment methods include Apple Pay, wire transfer, debit/credit cards, e-gift cards, Venmo, online banking, Interac, and even cash.
For new users, bet a minimum of $5 and receive $200 guaranteed, regardless of the outcome of the match.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
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Solisbet Website
Besides losing a wager, the next most frustrating experience for any punter is not being able to withdraw all their winnings due to bookmaker limits. Luckily, Solisbet is the go-to Rugby League sportsbook to avoid this issue. While the minimum deposit and withdrawal are €5, high rollers can withdraw up to €100,000 in a single calendar month, which can be advantageous for pro bettors.
The bookie offers several banking methods, including Visa, MasterCard, PaySafeCard, and e-wallets like Neteller and Skrill. If you prefer fast or private transactions, Solisbet supports cryptocurrency payments like BTC, DOGE, LTC, USDT, ETH, and more. This ensures speedy processing times and an added layer of privacy.
The high payout limit isn’t the only reason Solisbet is among the top-rated sportsbooks. If you need a change of pace, the platform offers around 20 other sports markets, including football, baseball, snooker, and even Esports.
New users can get a 100% bonus of up to €100 on their first deposit. For existing bettors, Solisbet’s 5-tier VIP program offers perks like up to 15% weekly cashback, reload bonuses, luxury giveaways, and dedicated customer support.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
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FreshBet Website
Founded by Ryker B.V. in 2021, FreshBet covers over 100 tournaments across popular sports like football, basketball, tennis, and, of course, Rugby League. With consistently favorable odds, low margins, and early line releases, it gives punters a clear edge by maximizing potential payouts and providing access to the latest markets ahead of the competition.
The in-play section is packed with several betting options that allow you to adjust your wagers as games unfold. Not only can you track live stats to see how matches progress, but you can also enjoy live streaming for certain matches. For games without live streams, the “Match Animation” tool tracks the game’s movements, giving you a detailed and engaging play-by-play overview that can help you make your predictions.
While these features are impressive, FreshBet’s strength lies in its payment options. For those seeking fast transactions with minimal fees or preferring not to share personal information, FreshBet can come in handy. The bookie accepts a range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Tether. For those who prefer more traditional payment methods, it also supports credit/debit cards, AstroPay, PayOp, Skrill, and more. The minimum deposit and withdrawal amount are $/£20.
If you encounter any issues, the support team is available 24/7 via email and live chat to ensure your questions are promptly addressed.
New users are welcomed with a 100% bonus of up to $/£500 on their first deposit. If you fund your account with cryptocurrency, the bonus increases to an impressive 155% up to $/£500. Existing bettors also benefit from FreshBet’s rewards, receiving one free bet for every three wagers placed.
| PROS | CONS |
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Betway Website
Betway offers competitive odds with margins as low as 5.5%, which gives you more returns on your wager. With early line releases, you can secure the best odds before the market shifts. It also provides a wide range of ways that newbies and pros can stake within their level of experience in a match.
In addition to Rugby League, the sportsbook features 30+ other sports, so you can mix things up.
Deposits start at just $10 or ÂŁ5, and withdrawals are available from ÂŁ5 or $10, with different banking methods like PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, PayNearMe, and even Cash at Cage.
New users have multiple welcome offers. You can choose between £10 in Free Bets on your first deposit or £30 if your first accumulator wager doesn’t go your way.
For assistance, Betway provides 24/7 live chat, email support, and a wealth of self-help resources through FAQs and blog posts.
Its mobile app is available on both the Google Play Store and App Store, so you can download and use all its features conveniently from wherever you are.
While it lacks a formal loyalty program, Betway provides punters with a premium, top-tier experience.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
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Betfair Website
Betfair is the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer betting exchange, where punters wager against each other, resulting in better odds. Unlike traditional sportsbooks, Betfair’s odds aren’t built on margins, giving you fairer prices and higher payouts. With one of the largest pools globally, this bookmaker ensures high liquidity, so your stakes are easily matched.
The platform offers innovative features like in-play betting and cash out that allow you to manage bets in real time, lock in profits, or minimize losses during Rugby League matches.
Acca edge provides partial refunds for accumulator punters if one leg of your stake doesn’t succeed. Meanwhile, the price rush feature automatically boosts your odds, potentially increasing your returns.
This bookie handles over 7 million transactions daily, making it one of the most reliable platforms. It also charges a 2-5% commission on net winnings, which is one of the lowest in the industry. You can deposit as low as ÂŁ5 with multiple payment methods, like PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and Apple Pay, while withdrawals can be as low as ÂŁ0.01, depending on the method. To make things easy, you can download the mobile app on the Google Play Store and App Store.
If you are creating an account to start your betting journey or just want to test the waters, Betfair refunds you ÂŁ20 in cash if your first bet ends in a loss.
| PROS | CONS |
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Use my comparison table to get a side-by-side look at the best Rugby League online bookmakers. It’s the easiest way to see which platforms fulfill your needs in terms of odds, payment options, accessibility, promotions, and legal availability.
| Features | bet365 | William Hill | DraftKings | Solisbet | FreshBet | Betway | Betfair |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In Play Mode | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Live Streaming | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Cash Out | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… | Yes âś… |
| Mobile Application | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ | No ❌ | No ❌ | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ |
| Bookmaker Payout | 95% | 96% | 95% | 98% | 94% | 95% | 94% |
| Min Deposit | £5 | £5 | $5 | €6 | €10 | £5 | £5 |
| Min Bet | £0.10 | £0.10 | $1 | €0.10 | €0.09 | £0.10 | £1 |
| Max Profit | £2000000 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | €15000 | Unlimited | £1000000 |
| Min Withdrawal | £5 | £5 | $1 | €10 | €10 | £10 | £1 |
| Withdrawal Time | Up to 10 working days | Up to 5 working days | Up to 8 working days | Up to 5 working days | Up to 3 working days | Up to 5 working days | Up to 5 working days |
| Rating |
4.8
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4.9
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4.7
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4.2
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4.7
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4.8
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4.7
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Betting bonuses, promotions, and other offers are the best and easiest ways to get extra value for your money. And the best part is that those are available on almost all betting sites for Rugby League you visit, but know that the bonuses’ variety and quality will vary.
You must also know that bonuses are the best tool for bookies to attract new bettors. The quality of the offers doesn’t necessarily reflect the betting experience the bookmaker can provide you. A sportsbook with excellent bonuses might have worse odds. It would be best to prioritize bookies with good odds and enough betting markets over those with great bonuses.
However, plenty of sportsbooks check both marks, and I will mention a few of them in my guide. Most notably, bookies with good odds and excellent bonuses include William Hill and SkyBet. Still, those are just two of many online bookies you should consider registering on.
Lastly, you must check the terms and conditions of the available bonuses before placing bets. Most are not that demanding, but in some cases, you won’t be eligible for the reward due to your residency, wagered amount, or other reasons.
Here are a few crucial things you need to know about making money while you bet on this sport:
There are many different ways to approach betting, and you can explore hundreds of betting markets. Here, I will look at some of the most popular bet types on any sites for Rugby League betting you visit.
A future bet is a bet usually placed before a competition begins. You’re predicting the outcome of a future event with it, hence the name “future bet”, which mainly refers to which team will win a tournament.
Technically, all bets placed in advance on the outcome of a future event are future bets, including league MVP, top scorer, and more. And they all also share another similarity – high betting odds with high potential payouts.
A match bet has many meanings, and it will vary from sportsbook to sportsbook. But a match bet usually refers to a wager on a straight head-to-head encounter, where you’re simply betting on which team will win.
Other forms of match betting include betting on which team will lead after a certain amount of time passes, which team will win either of the two halves, and more.
Margin bets offer a unique approach to wagering, although they are available on all Rugby League online betting websites. With margin bets, punters can choose from a wide selection of betting markets, including winning margin and the match result.
An example of a margin bet is for Team A to win by 1-12 points or Team A to win by +13. The actual numbers offered in margin betting will vary depending on the bookie you choose, but most commonly, they will be set at 1-12 and +13.
A tryscorer wager is a proposition bet and one of the favorite bets among prop bettors. Tryscorer bets are often paired with special bookies offers such as cashback or odds boosts, mainly because they’re generally hard to predict.
The types of try scorer bets include anytime try scorer win/try wagers and multiple try scorer, with bookies often allowing you to combine the best for a higher potential payout, ultimately offering better value bets.
Acca bets (accumulators or parlays) combine two or more single wagers. Most Rugby League betting platforms allow you to add as many single stakes to an Acca bet as you wish, exponentially increasing the total odds.
However, with more games comes a greater risk of the ticket failing since you must hit all your selections for the parlay to payout. That is why some of the best betting sites offer special promotions, such as cashback if your accumulator misses by a single leg.
Handicap betting is available on all matches and is the most popular way to bet on rugby. However, it’s primarily used in games where one team is stronger than the other, in which case handicaps can offer much better value bets.
With handicap gambling, bookies set the betting lines (point lines), which they believe will level the playing field by giving one team a head start of X points and the other a disadvantage of the same amount of points.
For example, suppose Team A is stronger than Team B. In that case, bookies will offer a -4.5 points handicap on Team A and a +4.5 points handicap on Team B. If you decide to bet on Team A, you believe they will win with at least 5 points to spare, whereas a +4.5 handicap bet on Team B means you predict they will win or not lose by more than 4 points.
Handicaps are easy to understand and offer excellent value bets for those who know where to look.
Rugby league consists of numerous international, continental, and regional competitions worldwide. Although some no longer exist, there are plenty of competitions you can bet on. You can rest assured that there are enough betting opportunities if you know where to find them.
Still, a few competitions and tournaments are popular among spectators and bettors. These tournaments usually receive the best coverage, have the most betting markets, and offer live betting opportunities.
The most famous competitions in the world are:
Before I end my article, here are a few interesting facts about Rugby League, its history, and exciting past events.
My guide covers everything you need to know about betting, where to find the best sportsbooks for Rugby League, and how to find smart bets. So now you’re ready to start betting!
