Wiki Return for Auckland Nines Thrills Punters
The NRL Auckland Nines from February 4-5 was always going to attract New Zealand betting fans in their droves. As the sole Kiwi team in the NRL, the New Zealand Warriors are assured of home-ground support against the visiting Australian teams at Eden Park. Fans will be even thirstier for a Warriors victory, after last year’s loss in the final to the Parramatta Eels, and the subsequent title-stripping debacle.
The anticipation went up a notch with the news that rugby league legend Ruben Kiwi, at the venerable age of 44, has been coaxed out of retirement to play for the Warriors in the 2017 Auckland Nines. When he ended his career in 2008, Wiki left behind a glittering record of achievements with both the Warriors and the Kiwis. He still holds the record for playing in the most rugby league internationals ever, after 55 appearances with the Kiwis, 18 of them as captain.
Some Commentators Sceptical
The responses to Wiki’s return have not all been positive, however. Apart from one appearance in 2009 in a charity match for Samoan Residents, raising money for the Samoan tsunami relief fund, Wiki has been officially retired for nine years. Some punters feel he may no longer have the goods for the faster format, especially with all the young talent ranged against him.
Former NRL coach and now commentator, Phil Gould, has also criticised Wiki’s return, saying it bears out his opinion that the Nines is a money-spinner that presents an unacceptable danger to players in the pre-season. A number of other coaches agree with him: teams like Manly and the Tigers, and perhaps Canberra as well, will be fielding teams missing some of their most valuable players, following some disastrous pre-season injuries last year.
But lots of betting fans can’t wait to see Wiki back in action, and the Kava King himself has shrugged off any doubts about competing with players half his age. To be fair, as the Warriors’ strength and conditioning coach these past seven years, it’s not like he’s let himself go.
| # | Site | Bonus | Bet | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Betway |  | 5/5 | Up to $60 NZD | Bet now Review |
| 2 |  | Picklebet | | 4.9/5 | Login to see promotions | Bet now Review |
| 3 |  | Palmerbet | | 4.8/5 | 100% Match | Bet now Review |
More About Lauren Ball
An avid writer and sports betting enthusiast, Lauren Ball has found the ideal way to combine the two. As a regular contributor and resident OnlineBettingNZ.co.nz expert, Lauren is now putting her considerable wisdom to good use, and keeps punters informed as to what’s hot and happening in the online betting and sporting world.
From the latest sports results to any upsets or developments in the betting world, Lauren makes it her business to know what’s going on in the industry and share it with those who have the same interests.
You May Also Like:
Betting on NRL Futures: Your Guide to Premiership Odds & Long-term Bets
NRL futures betting, or long-term betting, allows Kiwi fans to wager on outcomes that will be determined over the entire NRL season rather than single matches. The most popular futures ….
Inside the Playbook: How Successful NRL Coaches Shape Champions
Coaching strategies are the bedrock of success in the high-stakes world of the NRL. Understanding these strategies isn’t just for aspiring coaches – it’s also crucial for NRL betting enthusiasts ….
Bulldogs vs Sea Eagles game in NRL Round 26
The Canterbury Bulldogs will face the Manly Sea Eagles on Friday, 30 August 2024, at 6:00 p.m. AEST at Stadium Australia. This match is critical for both teams. The Bulldogs ….
2024 NRL Betting Promotions: How to Maximise Your Winning
Betting promotions are special offers from bookmakers designed to enhance your sports betting experience by offering extra value on your wagers. For NRL bettors, these promotions are particularly valuable, offering ….
Underdog Teams to Watch in the 2024 NRL Season
The Appeal of Betting on Underdogs Betting on underdog teams in the NRL can be both thrilling and rewarding. These teams often come with higher odds, offering the potential for ….