For many players in the NSW Cup, Jersey Flegg (junior NSW league competition), and QLD Cup, joining the NRL is a significant jump in their careers. However, sports betting has also lifted the popularity of the other cups, including the players. Therefore, rugby fans that bet on Betway sports betting and other sports betting sites already know about these budding talents.
Here, we look at the players that are likely to make the jump to the big leagues.
1. Toby Rudolf
Rudolf plays as a prop forward for Newtown. He overcame the struggles he had with injuries earlier in his career to become a force to be reckoned. He would get a starting role in the Sharks system, but the most likely scenario is getting a spot on the bench in Round 1.
He was a crucial player in the Bluebag’s wins in the Canterbury Cup Grand Final and Interstate Challenge in which they were up against Burleigh Bears.
2. Albert Hopoate
Hopoate would have joined the big leagues in 2019, were it not for an ill-timed injury he sustained in pre-season. Hopoate is expected to be back in 2020 and hopefully stronger and fitter.
He is also expected to force himself into Manly’s team at some point. He is the son of former player John and younger brother to Bulldogs star Will. He is tipped for greater things this coming season.
‘Better than his dad’: Lyons’ huge calls on Albert Hopoate and Manly’s 2019 campaign by @GLR_Clarkehttps://t.co/0qTDrS7RjQ pic.twitter.com/Ro4ppuiJe1
— Fox League (@FOXNRL) March 8, 2019
3. Lachlan Timm
Timm was expected to play in the NRL for the Dragons last year. It is strange that he didn’t. Timm, 23, who plays as a prop, ran more than 4,000 meters in 2019, which was the second-highest in the competition.
He also made more than 850 tackles, which were the highest in the competition. He would be an excellent addition to any side that picked him.
4. Greg Leleisiuao
Greg, who plays as a winger, had a great season. He made it to the Grand Final and was named in the NSW Cup Team of the Year.
In the competition, he was ahead of everyone in terms of runs, run meters, post-contact meters, and tackle-breaks. He might be a fan favorite for betters on Betway as they follow the games and bet on them. The Titans signed the 22-year old who has a great opportunity of earning a spot in Round 1.
5. Edene Gebbie
Last season Edene was on top of his game in the QLD Cup competition. He managed 19 tries in 21 games and also played in the Grand Final for Wynnum-Manly.
The Rabbitohs recruited him, and he is another player to watch in 2020.
6. Tex Hoy
Tex is a refined young fullback that could also make a jump to the big leagues. At just 19, he already made an impression in the NRL Nines. He is currently behind Kaylyn Ponga in the pecking order at the Knights.
However, with KP in Origin, he would get an opportunity for his debut. Rugby punters on Betway and other sports casinos should expect him to feature in the team sheet at some point. Tex has played NSW U20s and received the Knights NSW Cup Player of the Year Award in 2019.
7. Egan Butcher
Egan is the brother to Nat the Roosters forward. He is 19 years old and a star-in-waiting. He is a versatile forward who played junior football in the backs. However, his size has moved him into the engine room.
Egan has the capability to take on the enormous task before him to break through to the big leagues. In the past 18 months, he has awed Roosters officials.
Keep your eyes on Egan Butcher! Some up and coming talent spotlight ahead of the new season: https://t.co/Ol6xmuavMf #EastsToWin pic.twitter.com/NuDF8HcG7a
— Sydney Roosters 🏆🏆 (@sydneyroosters) January 14, 2019
8. Steven Marsters
The gifted Marsters plays as an outside back. He has signed for the Rabbitohs in 2020.
At 19 years, he has already played for the Cook Islands and has the capability to shine at the big leagues. The bunnies have many players at the back five, but an injury could present him the opportunity for his debut.
9. Adam Clune
Adam, 24, has already been in the Dragons system for a while. He has not been offered an opportunity in the NRL yet.
After a great season with the Red V, he was named in the 2019 NSW Cup Team. The halfback could finally get his chance with the departure of Jai Field.
10. Troy Dargan
Troy has also been recruited by the Rabbitohs. He has played for the Australian Schoolboys and NSW U20s. He will act as the backup for Adam Reynolds and Cody Walker in the 2020 season. He will be encouraged by Reynold’s injury record, which increases the chances for a debut for him.
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The 2020 NRL Telstra Premiership is due to restart on May 28th.
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