What's not to love about rugby? The aggression? The excitement? The gentlemanly conduct that you don't see in other sports? It has everything a fan could ever want, but that doesn't mean you don't want to spice up your life now and again. With a wager, there is even more anticipation on the game, something that heightens the experience. Of course, you still need to know which tournaments are around the corner to look forward to an evening of last-ditch tackles and swan dives. Therefore, here are the competitions that will get the adrenaline pumping for rugby union fans this year.
The Six Nations
The incredible thing about the Six Nations is the standard of rugby. Sure, the southern hemisphere sides will have a lot to say about the destination of trophies come the World Cup and Lions' tours. However, at least four of the top eight teams in world rugby are on show from February to March – England, France, Ireland and Wales. The side to watch out for is England as they are defending champions and are the best team of paper judging by the form book and the bookmakers. The Six Nations odds currently have them as leading favourites. Still, regardless of who wins it, there are bound to be moments of drama and intrigue, especially as the chances of a no Grand Slam winner are 5/6.
Two Lions' Tours
While the British Isles might be divided most of the time, it comes together every four years for a Lion's tour. The British and Irish Lions are made up of the world's elite, including Owen Farrell, Finn Russell and Johnny Sexton. The fact that they all play in the same position makes the politics of the Lions' more exciting as who you assume to be a definite starter could be on the bench. The first game in June can't be described as a traditional event since the Japan squad is coming to Murrayfield to take us on in our backyard. However, after that, a trip to South Africa is waiting, and there are bound to be several English players who are desperately seeking revenge after their World Cup disappointment in 2019. They might as some bookies have South Africa as long as 7/5 on home turf.
Drop a GIF 👇 to describe this moment 📱#LionsRugby pic.twitter.com/tFfwWNSPaq
— British & Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) January 12, 2021
Autumn Internationals
The Autumn Internationals have only just been and gone, along with the Autumn Nations Cup, but it won't be long before November is here and the rugby is the only thing that gets you through the winter! Hopefully, 2021 will be particularly spicy since the two games slated are against South Africa and Australia. The former is good fun, yet the latter is a bitter grudge match between eternal rivals. Plus, it's for silverware because the contract that was signed 21 years ago continues to run. As a result, the Cook Cup will be up for grabs at Twickenham. It should be a cracker!
There is a lot of rugby to look forward to in 2021, so anticipation will be high. As always, the Six Nations' and Lions' tour matches take the headlines as they are very prestigious, but the Autumn Internationals will prepare the top teams for the 2023 World Cup with the competition fast approaching.
