Our columnist Ian Millward picks out his best bets from this weekend's action in Super League and the NRL.
Recommended bets:
Super League
Warrington v Wakefield (+10) (Saturday, 1500 BST)
The Wolves have finally hit form and go into this one having won three in a row – and four of the last five between these two sides.Wakefield have been overachieving all season and played very well against Wigan on Easter Monday.
They’re not a free scoring side though, they are very meticulous and build pressure through their forwards and a good kicking game.
Daryl Clarke is a big loss for Warrington - he provides a lot of energy from dummy half - but they have some players returning too and I think they’ll win and cover now they finally have some confidence.
Hull (+2) v Castleford (Sunday, 1500 BST)
I thought Castleford struggled in their forwards at St Helens on Monday - it was a surprise as they’ve been outstanding all season and their halves have thrived off the back of them.
I expect them to get back on track here - especially with Rangi Chase getting his sharpness back too. He goes well at Hull as a rule and wouldn’t be a bad shout for first try scorer.
Hull have really missed Danny Houghton and have struggled defensively this season - an area of their game, which was their strength last year. I think there will be points in this and I take the visitors to get back on track, turn on the style, and run out convincing winners.
Wigan v Catalans (+10) (Sunday 1500 BST)
The Dragons have suddenly won three in a row off the back of the organisation and kicking game of Luke Walsh. They’ve welcomed some key men back and are looking like their old selves.
That said, this is a stern test against a Wigan side who won both matches over Easter and who have a fine record in this fixture. They’ll miss the suspended Anthony Gelling at centre, his size means he’s always a threat, but they’re very strong defensively and should win and cover.
Challenge Cup
Leigh v Hull KR (+10) (Saturday, 1500 BST)
This is the game of the week in the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup. Leigh have hit a bit of hole of late and have lost five in a row and face here what Super League sides encountered when playing them in recent years.
That’s a good side who are full of confidence and energy having not been knocked around week-in week-out as you are in the top flight.
Hull KR will fancy this one and I think they’re the bet with the start, They will rise to the occasion and look a decent shout against a side who have other priorities.
NRL
Sharks v Titans (+10) (Saturday, 1030 BST, Premier Sports)
Cronulla haven’t conceded a try in their last two games and are the defending Premiers but I just think they could come unstuck here. The Titans have a number of players returning for this one - including star full-back Jarryd Hayne - and the hosts have had a run of tough games. It wouldn’t even surprise me to see the visitors nick the two points.
Storm v Warriors (+10) (Tuesday, 1000 BST, Premier Sports)
Historically this is a game people think New Zealand go well in but not in recent times. Melbourne have won four of the last five at home and can make that five from six. They welcome back some players from injury and are joint leaders of the competition right now. They look to have too much for the visitors.
Posted at 1545BST on 20/04/17.
