There are only two or three rugby league contests that really catch the attention of the betting public. A test between Australia and England always draws a lot of interest as does the traditional Anzac test between Australia and New Zealand. However, the contest that draws the biggest interest is the annual State of Origin series between Queensland and New South Wales. All three are keenly fought on the field, and keenly backed through rugby league betting bookmakers.

Whether you’re in England, New Zealand, South Africa, or Europe, this series is watched with interest. Considered the two best teams in world rugby league, the annual battle of the titans is always thrilling and not without its moments of controversy. Queensland go into this year’s series as red hot favourites, having won the previous five with little effort.

In tomorrow’s opening game of the best of three series, Queensland are 8/15 at home to start off with a win. New South Wales are 2/1 while the draw is out to 20/1. While everyone is talking about how good Queensland are, and perhaps how bad New South Wales appear, don’t be surprised to see a much closer result than what has been predicted. I am prepared to back the draw at 20/1. The history of this series is littered with drawn games or one point wins.

This year’s series has the first and third game in Brisbane with the second game being played in Sydney. With two home games, Queensland are the logical favourites to win the series although 1/2 is pretty short at this stage. New South Wales are 9/5 although you can expect them to firm after the first game – particularly if they do give Queensland a tough close game.

Queensland should win the series – the odds aren’t fancy but a win is a win. If you want to spec at good odds, I suggest you back the draw in each game – at 20/1, you only need one win to grab a huge payout.