Thursday 30 May 2002

The All Blacks, currently training in Whangamata in preparation for the international season, have been made favourites by the TAB to win this season’s Tri-Nations series.

Buoyed by the Crusaders resounding success in the Super 12, the TAB bookies have installed the All Blacks as $2.00 favourites with the Wallabies next at $2.40 and the Springboks $5.00.

The opening Tri-Nations match of the season sees the All Blacks and Wallabies meet at Jade Stadium on July 13 but before that there are tests against Italy, Ireland and Fiji.

Meanwhile, Australia has retained favouritism for next year’s World Cup to be staged in Australia. The Wallabies are priced at $2.50, the All Blacks $2.90, England $5.00 and both South Africa and France $7.50.