"All Blacks are Favourites" - Betting odds revealed for 2025 Rugby Championship

When the Southern Hemisphere showcases the best they have to offer, it looks to be an exciting competition for the next six weeks. New Zealand are coming off a competitive series win against France, whilst South Africa will look to defend their title.

Argentina want to bounce back after two defeats to England, and re-capture the fire from defeating the British & Irish Lions. Australia will look to capitalise on the same momentum, having won the third test of the Lions series earlier this month.

Los Pumas come into the competition as big underdogs. The South Americans have proven to be a potent outfit capable of getting the job done. Even though they suffered two disappointing defeats against England, not all has been bleak; in Dublin, they toppled the Lions in a day of grit, glory, and shattered expectations—a squad backed with talent and experience.

Pumas captain Julián Montoya is a stoic figure in the pack, whose leadership and skill have made him a vital part of his nation’s team. Juan Cruz Mallia, coming in from Toulouse, is an electric and versatile player who causes headaches for opposing backlines. The same can be said for Santiago Carreras, who took the PREM by storm last season with Gloucester Rugby.

Argentina kicked off their campaign by welcoming New Zealand to Cordoba. Los Pumas managed to bag the win over the All Blacks last year in Wellington, yet have never defeated New Zealand upon Argentine soil. Argentina will look to take another step forward this year in The Rugby Championship.

Australia’s international season began at full throttle, with the roar of the Lions echoing across the southern shores. Joe Schmidt’s side have steadily progressed since throughout the past couple of years, as they matched up well against the Lions, taking victory in the third test.

The Wallabies have shown they can be very effective with the ball in their hands and have athletes who can break the gain line. A key factor will be if the trio of Rob Valentini, Will Skelton, and Taniela Tupou are fit. Three world-class forces that dominate collisions and impose their will with unyielding physicality.

Throughout their series with the Lions, Australia proved to be a team that punishes if a mistake is made. It will be a tough opening challenge to journey to South Africa and topple the mighty Springboks. Yet, they are a talented team capable of pulling off some upsets.

New Zealand come into the competition as favourites. Scott Robertson’s side is stacked with talent. Even though the French side was without their seasoned internationals, New Zealand had to be at their best, a seamless blend of power and pace; forwards who dominate, backs who dance.

In the forward pack, you have a wealth of experience with Scott Barrett and Ardie Savea, and ready to pack down. The backline possesses some world-beating talents who have done it all. Players such as Will Jordan, Rieko Ioane, and Beauden Barrett will look to add to their legacy, but there are too many greats to name. All signs point to a clash of titans: New Zealand and South Africa. The All Blacks hold home advantage in Auckland and Wellington. This is probably why they have the favourites tag. New Zealand will look to prove the bookmakers right.

In much of the rugby world’s eyes, South Africa are the best. A side with an abundance of talent and depth, some days unbeatable. The Springboks hunt for back-to-back titles after wins against the Barbarians, Italy, and Georgia throughout the Summer.

With an arsenal of talent, South Africa’s greatest weapon is their unmatched depth. From prop to fullback, they are world-class operators. Players like Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, and Eben Etzebeth have all performed on the biggest stages and have the Rugby World Cup winner's medals to prove it.

Power is a trademark of their game, but the backs possess tremendous flair. Kurt-Lee Arendse, Cheslin Kolbe, and Grant Williams are only a handful of electrifying athletes. There is no doubt that South Africa have an immensely talented squad. The Springboks must summon greatness once more to keep their hands on the trophy.

There are some interesting bets to consider. Even though New Zealand come in as favourites, it’s hard to bet against them. Australia and Argentina are also capable of causing an upset. The Rugby Championship is a stage where legends are made; its next chapter is waiting to be written.