The Hurricanes have emerged from the confusion of the new Super Rugby format to be short favourites to lift this year's trophy.
As fans try to digest the ramifications of a competition that has been expanded to 18 teams and a conference system that now takes in the far‑flung destinations of Asia and South America, it seems the one constant with the international bookmakers is that a New Zealand team will lift the title.
Stuff.co is reporting that it seems the Canes have been given a slight edge to finally break their duck and win the coveted silverware that has eluded them since 1996.
The New Zealand TAB has the Chiefs as favourites at $6.50 ahead of the Hurricanes at $7.50.
But in Australia, Centrebet have the Hurricanes at early favourites at $6 with the Chiefs at $7.
In South Africa, Interbet lists the Hurricanes as favourites, marginally ahead of the Chiefs.
The Waratahs are the most fancied Australian side just ahead of the Brumbies.
And the ever‑present Crusaders are right in the mix of agencies across the New Zealand, Australian and South African markets.
None of the bookmakers are giving the Highlanders a chance of repeating their surprise heroics from last year when they beat the Hurricanes in the final in Wellington.
In the opening round of the Super Rugby next Friday, the Blues will play the Highlanders at 6.35pm while the Hurricanes will play the Brumbies at 8.40pm.
On Saturday, seven time champions, the Crusaders will take on the Chiefs at 6.35pm and the Waratahs will play the Reds at 8.40pm.
On Sunday, the Kings will play the Sharks at 1am and the Bulls will clash with the Stormers at 3.05am.
Source: Stuff.co.nz
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