The 2024 Super League season has been a rollercoaster ride, filled with unexpected twists and turns that have gripped rugby league fans. As the regular campaign comes to a dramatic close, attention now shifts to the highly anticipated playoffs, where six teams will battle it out for a coveted Super League Grand Final berth at Old Trafford.
With Wigan Warriors securing the League Leaders’ Shield for the second consecutive year, the stage is set for an electrifying postseason showdown. Joining the Warriors in the semi-finals will be Hull KR and the winners of the elimination fixtures – Salford Red Devils vs Leigh Leopards, and Warrington Wolves vs St Helens.
In this betting preview, we’ll delve into the key storylines, star players to watch, and the latest odds to help you navigate the journey towards Grand Final glory.
Playoffs
The 2024 Super League playoffs promise to be a captivating spectacle, with a diverse array of teams vying for the ultimate prize. From the dominant Wigan Warriors to the exciting underdogs Leigh Leopards, each team brings a unique blend of talent, experience, and determination to the table.
As the elimination fixtures and semifinals unfold, the tension and drama will only intensify, making this an unmissable event for rugby league enthusiasts. Regardless of the outcome, the playoffs and Grand Final are set to deliver plenty of entertainment and drama.
Salford Red Devils vs Leigh Leopards: Elimination Playoff, Friday 27th September
The first elimination playoff will see the fourth-placed Salford Red Devils host the fifth-placed Leigh Leopards in a winner-takes-all clash. The Red Devils, led by the experienced Marc Sneyd, will be the favorites to progress, but the Leopards’ physical and gritty style of play could pose a significant challenge.
Salford’s ability to control the game through Sneyd’s kicking game will be crucial, while the Leopards will rely on the powerhouse presence of Edwin Ipape to disrupt the Red Devils’ rhythm. This fixture promises to be a tight and tense affair, with the winner earning the right to face the second-placed Hull KR in the semifinals.
Warrington Wolves vs St Helens: Elimination Playoff, Saturday 28th September
In the second elimination playoff, the third-placed Warrington Wolves will host the sixth-placed St Helens in a rematch of their regular-season encounter. The Wolves, buoyed by the try-scoring exploits of Matty Ashton, will be the favorites to progress, but the Saints will be determined to defy the odds and keep their Grand Final dreams alive.
St Helens’ young full-back Jack Welsby will be a key player in this fixture, as he looks to inspire his team to an upset victory. However, the Wolves’ experience and the home advantage could prove to be the decisive factors in this high-stakes clash.
Hull KR vs Highest-Ranked Eliminator Winner: Semi-Final, Friday 4th October
The first semifinal will see the second-placed Hull KR host the winner of the Salford Red Devils vs Leigh Leopards encounter. The Robins, led by the talismanic Mikey Lewis, will be the favorites to progress to the Grand Final, but they’ll have to be wary of the grit and determination of their opponents.
If Salford manage to overcome Leigh, their experience and the boot of Marc Sneyd could pose a significant challenge for the Robins. However, if the Leopards pull off the upset, Hull KR’s exciting brand of rugby and the home advantage may prove to be too much for the newcomers.
Wigan Warriors vs Lowest-Ranked Eliminator Winner: Semi-Final, Saturday 5th October
The second semifinal will feature the League Leaders’ Shield winners, the Wigan Warriors, hosting the lowest-ranked eliminator winner. As the defending champions, the Warriors will be the overwhelming favorites to secure their place in the Grand Final, but they’ll need to be wary of any potential banana skins.
If St Helens manage to overcome Warrington, their experience and the talent of Jack Welsby could make them a tricky proposition for the Warriors. However, if the Wolves prevail, Wigan’s depth of quality and the home advantage may be too much for their opponents to handle.
Grand Final Betting Preview
The 2024 Super League season will culminate in the Grand Final at the iconic Old Trafford on October 12th. This showpiece event will see the winners of the two semifinals go head-to-head in a battle for the ultimate prize in rugby league.
As the defending champions, the Wigan Warriors will be the favorites to lift the trophy once again, with their wealth of talent and experience making them a formidable opponent. However, the likes of Hull KR, Warrington Wolves, and even the underdogs Salford Red Devils, Leigh Leopards, and St Helens will all believe they have what it takes to upset the odds and claim the coveted Super League title.
Regardless of the finalists, the Grand Final promises to be a thrilling and nail-biting affair, with the winning team etching their name in the history books. Punters who can correctly predict the eventual champion could be rewarded, with the Wigan Warriors offering the most attractive odds at 10/11.
| League Pos. | Team | Grand Final Winner Odds |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Wigan Warriors | 10/11 |
| 2nd | Hull KR | 11/4 |
| 3rd | Warrington Wolves | 9/2 |
| 4th | Salford Red Devils | 25/1 |
| 5th | Leigh Leopards | 22/1 |
| 6th | St Helens | 14/1 |
Wigan Warriors: Defending Champions Primed for Triumph
Odds to Win Super League: 10/11
The Wigan Warriors have been the dominant force in the Super League for the past two seasons, and their performance in the 2024 campaign has been nothing short of exceptional. Led by Bevan French, the Warriors have steamrolled their way to the League Leaders’ Shield, amassing an impressive 44 points and a staggering points difference of +386.
French, the reigning Man of Steel, has been the driving force behind Wigan’s success, scoring 16 tries and providing 14 assists. His electrifying pace, dazzling footwork, and clinical finishing have made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Alongside French, the Warriors boast a wealth of talent across the pitch, with the likes of Liam Farrell, Jai Field, and Cade Cust providing the necessary support to ensure Wigan’s quest for back-to-back Grand Final victories.
With a well-balanced squad, a proven winning mentality, and the home advantage in the semifinals, the Warriors will be the favorites to lift the trophy once again. Punters who back Wigan to triumph at Old Trafford will be rewarded with solid looking odds of 10/11.
Hull KR: Exciting Underdogs Aiming for Grand Final Glory
Odds to Win Super League: 11/4
Hull KR have been the surprise package of the 2024 Super League season, defying expectations and securing a second-place finish. Led by the mercurial Mikey Lewis, the Robins have showcased an exhilarating brand of rugby that has impressed fans and pundits alike.
Lewis, with his cheeky personality and creative flair, has been the orchestrator of Hull KR’s success. The young half-back has racked up 26 appearances, 19 tries, and numerous try-assists, earning a well-deserved spot in the Super League Dream Team. Alongside Lewis, the Robins boast a dynamic squad that includes the likes of Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Kane Linnett, and Jez Litten, all of whom have played pivotal roles in the team’s excellent campaign.
As the second-highest ranked team heading into the playoffs, Hull KR will be brimming with confidence and belief. While they may not be the outright favorites, their exciting brand of rugby and the home advantage in the semi-finals make them a tempting 11/4 option for those seeking an underdog story. A wager on the Robins could prove to be a lucrative proposition.
Warrington Wolves: Experienced Contenders Aiming to End Drought
Odds to Win Super League: 9/2
The Warrington Wolves have been a consistent force in the Super League for many years, but they’ve never won the Super League and their last Grand Final appearance was back in 2018. This year, they’ll be determined to end that drought and win their first ever Grand Final.
Led by the prolific winger Matty Ashton, who has scored 21 tries in 27 appearances, the Wolves have showcased their attacking prowess throughout the regular season. Ashton’s combination of pace, power, and finishing ability have made him a constant threat, and he’ll be a key player in Warrington’s playoff push.
Alongside Ashton, the Wolves boast a wealth of experience in their squad, with the likes of Stefan Ratchford, Gareth Widdop, and Chris Hill providing the necessary leadership and composure. Head coach Sam Burgess has instilled a winning mentality in his team, and they’ll be eager to prove their credentials against the top contenders.
With a solid 9/2 odds to win the Super League, the Warrington Wolves present an intriguing option for punters seeking a team with the pedigree and potential to go all the way.
Salford Red Devils: Experienced Head Seeks Maiden Grand Final Triumph
Odds to Win Super League: 25/1
The Salford Red Devils have been the perennial underdogs in the Super League, but under the tutelage of experienced head coach Paul Rowley, they’ve managed to secure a playoff berth this season. Rowley’s decision to rest several key players in the final round of the regular season was a calculated gamble that paid off, as the Red Devils secured a fourth-place finish.
At the heart of Salford’s success is the boot of Marc Sneyd, who has been instrumental in dictating the tempo of their matches. Sneyd’s kicking game has been a constant thorn in the opposition’s side, and his ability to control the field position has been crucial to the Red Devils’ performance.
While Salford may not be the outright favorites to lift the trophy, their playoff experience and the presence of Sneyd make them a dangerous outfit. Punters who believe in the Red Devils’ ability to defy the odds and win the Grand Final can back them at enticing odds of 25/1.
Leigh Leopards: Newcomers Aiming to Upset the Established Order
Odds to Win Super League: 22/1
The Leigh Leopards have been one of the surprise packages of the 2024 season, securing a fifth-place finish and a spot in the playoffs. Led by the powerful presence of Edwin Ipape, the Leopards have showcased a gritty and physical brand of rugby that has proven to be a handful for their opponents.
Ipape, the former Papua New Guinea international, has been a revelation in the middle of the park, providing the Leopards with a dominant presence in both attack and defense. His ability to make crucial metres and deliver bone-crunching tackles has been a key factor in Leigh’s success.
As the newcomers to the playoff arena, the Leopards will be outsiders, but their spirited performances throughout the regular season suggest they have the potential to cause an upset. Punters seeking a high-risk, high-reward option can back the Leopards at tempting 22/1 odds to lift the trophy.
St Helens: Aiming to Defy History and Become First Sixth-Placed Champions
Odds to Win Super League: 14/1
St Helens, have endured a challenging 2024 campaign, finishing the regular season in sixth place. However, the Saints have the opportunity to make history by becoming the first team to win the Grand Final from that position.
Leading the charge for St Helens is the young full-back Jack Welsby, who has already established himself as a star of the Super League. Welsby’s exceptional talent, combined with his hunger for success, makes him a player to watch in the playoffs. The 23-year-old has already amassed an impressive list of accolades, including three Grand Final wins, a Challenge Cup triumph, and a World Club Challenge victory.
Despite their lower league position, St Helens possess the experience and quality to overcome the odds. Punters who believe in the Saints’ ability to defy history and claim an unprecedented Grand Final victory can back them at odds of 14/1.
