New Zealand Rugby League

A stunning win in the 2008 rugby league World Cup against Australia established New Zealand as a force to be feared, much as they are in rugby union. A rising bunch of stars, plying their trade across the globe has improved the standards of New Zealand rugby league, which has made New Zealand rugby betting more interesting.

Follow the links to 188BET for New Zealand rugby league betting or read on to find out more about the rising crop of stars for New Zealand.

A Shock World Cup Win

New Zealand are the current rugby league world champions after pulling off the biggest shock in the history of the Rugby League World Cup when they beat Australia in November 2008.

The Australian side were expected to crush the Kiwis in the final, but New Zealand registered a stunning 34-20 win to record their first ever victory.

The result was a surprise to everybody except the New Zealanders themselves - and when you look at their squad, it was foolish in hindsight to suggest the Kangaroos would walk away with the trophy for a 10th time.

Wigan Warriors' Thomas Leuluai, New Zealand Warriors' Manu Vatuvei, Melbourne Storm's Jeremy Smith and skipper Nathan Cayless are all world-class players - and they are by no means alone at that level in the squad.

A Global Squad

Most of the current Kiwi crop of international players ply their trade in the National Rugby League and although many have set up base in Australia, choosing to play for the Storm or live in Sydney, a fair chunk of those who represent New Zealand internationally cannot break ties with their home country so easily, choosing to play for the New Zealand Warriors at a domestic level.

They are coached by Stephen Kearney, who also played for them between 1994 and 2003, with Brisbane Broncos coaching legend Wayne Bennetts working from time to time as his number two.