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Rugby World Cup 2027 Betting: France Now a Smart Bet

JoeNa Connacht — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 20:45:05 +0000

Rugby World Cup 2027 Betting: France Now a Smart Bet After Statement Win Over Ireland

With just over two years to go until the Rugby World Cup kicks off in Australia, the odds are starting to shift – and not without reason. Following a massive Six Nations 2025 statement from France, including a dominant victory over Ireland, Les Bleus may now be the value pick in the outright market.

Latest Odds Overview

According to Paddy Power, the early favourites remain the usual suspects. New Zealand lead the way at 5/2, closely followed by South Africa at 3/1. The Springboks will look to defend their title and become the first nation to win five World Cups.

Ireland and France are next in line at 5/1 – but after France’s crushing of Ireland in this year’s Six Nations, those odds might not last long.

Why France Could Be the Smart Backing

France’s win over Ireland wasn’t just impressive – it was a warning shot to the rest of the world. With a squad boasting depth, youth, and flair, and the hurt of their home quarter-final exit in 2023 still lingering, Fabien Galthié’s side appear to be peaking at exactly the right time.

With talismanic figures like Antoine Dupont, Romain Ntamack, and Gregory Alldritt in their prime, the French blend physical dominance with attacking precision. Their performance in 2025 suggests they’ve put past heartbreak behind them – and 5/1 could look generous in hindsight.

Hosts and Long Shots

Australia, the 2027 hosts, sit at 7/1 – a reflection of their rebuilding status after a disastrous 2023 campaign. England follow at 10/1, but inconsistency continues to dog them.

At 33/1, both Argentina and Fiji look tempting each-way options, especially given their strong World Cup pedigree and explosive backlines.

Wales (40/1) and Scotland (50/1) are drifting, while Italy (425/1) and the rest (500/1) remain unlikely champions.

Verdict: Back Les Bleus

If you’re looking for timing and value, this could be the moment to back France at 5/1. Their form in the 2025 Six Nations, particularly the demolition of Ireland, shows a side with serious intent. Add to that a settled coaching ticket and a generational squad, and it’s hard to ignore the writing on the wall: France are coming.

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Aviva Stadium to Host Majority of Leinster Home Games in 2025/26 – Season Tickets from €115

JoeNa Connacht — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:10:38 +0000

Aviva Stadium to Host Majority of Leinster Home Games in 2025/26 – Season Tickets from €115

Leinster Rugby has today announced Season Ticket details for the 2025/26 campaign, confirming that the Aviva Stadium will remain the primary venue for home fixtures in the BKT United Rugby Championship and the Investec Champions Cup. Croke Park will also be available to host additional high-capacity matches when required.

As part of a broader communication to Season Ticket Holders, the following key updates were confirmed:

The RDS Arena will reopen at the beginning of the 2026/27 season with an increased capacity of over 20,000.
For the 2025/26 season, the Aviva Stadium will host the majority of home games.
Ticket prices will increase by an average of 3.9% across most categories—the first rise since the 2018/19 season.
Junior Season Ticket prices remain frozen at €115, with lower-cost entry points for adults and families also retained.

Why the Aviva Stadium Remains the Home Base for Now

Matthew Dowling, Leinster Rugby’s Chief Commercial Officer, explained the decision:

“While the RDS Arena will be available from August 2025, we’d only be able to operate at a reduced capacity—not enough to accommodate our full Season Ticket base. We’ve grown from 12,248 Season Ticket Holders at the RDS to over 15,000 at the Aviva. The aim is to include as many supporters as possible at every game.”

He continued:

“We don’t want to disenfranchise any of our Season Ticket Holders—whether they’ve been with us for 12 years or just joined—so we’ve decided to wait until the new-look RDS Arena is fully complete before moving back.”

Ticket Pricing and Supporter Engagement

Dowling said pricing decisions were made following supporter feedback through the annual Leinster Listener survey and discussions with the Official Leinster Supporters Club (OLSC).

“We’ve extended the renewal window, retained entry-level pricing for adults and juniors, and kept the family-of-five and student ticket options that were well received. Unfortunately, operational costs have increased, and after holding prices steady for over six years, we’ve had to implement a modest average increase of under 4%—but junior prices remain untouched.”

He reaffirmed that Leinster Rugby is a not-for-profit organisation:

“All revenue is reinvested—whether it’s supporting over 39,000 registered players across our 12 counties or funding the pathway from grassroots to the professional game.”

The Road Back to the RDS Arena

Looking ahead, Dowling outlined plans for the transition back to the redeveloped RDS Arena in 2026/27:

“The new stadium will have capacity for over 20,000 and promises a brilliant match day experience. Our priority will be the supporters who were with us before the move to Aviva. We’ve engaged a world-renowned consultancy to manage this return and ensure fairness for newer fans too.”

He also expressed gratitude to key partners for their ongoing support:

“We’re thankful to the RDS, IRFU, FAI, Aviva Stadium, and the GAA for their help in managing our home fixtures this season and next.”

Season Ticket Benefits

In addition to access to all home URC and EPCR fixtures, Season Tickets will include:

Admission to all home Leinster Rugby Women’s games.
Access to Leinster Rugby ‘A’ matches in the new interprovincial series (excluding play-offs).

Key Dates for Season Ticket Holders

Renewal window: Friday, 14 March – Friday, 4 April 2025
Seat relocation option: Tuesday, 8 April 2025
Waiting list sales: Thursday, 17 April 2025
General public sale: Wednesday, 23 April 2025

A Strong Season On and Off the Pitch

Dowling concluded with a reflection on what has been a standout season so far:

“The Aviva and Croke Park have been brilliant hosts. We’ve averaged over 37,000 supporters at home games. Tania Rosser’s squad kicked off the season with an interpro title and a record crowd at Energia Park. Leo Cullen’s team has continued that momentum and remains unbeaten across both the URC and the Investec Champions Cup.”

“With a return to the RDS Arena on the horizon, this is a hugely exciting time for Leinster Rugby—and we can’t wait to share that journey with our supporters.”

The Season Ticket renewal window opens on Friday, 14 March 2025, with general sale starting Wednesday, 23 April 2025.

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List of Live Sport on TV this week – RTE, Virgin, TG4 and BBC

JoeNa Connacht — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:04:18 +0000

We have Sport on TV this week – GAA Rugby, Racing live on Irish TV

Cheltenham
Tues to Fri – 12:45 to 5pm, Virgin 1

Tuesday
Barcelona v Benfica, 5:30pm, Virgin 2
Leverkusen v Bayern, 8pm, Virgin 2

Wednesday
Lille v Dortmund, 5:30pm, Virgin 2
Aston Villa v Club Brugge, 8pm, Virgin2
Atletico v Real Madrid, 8pm, RTE2

Friday
St Pats v Bohs, 7:30pm, Virgin 2
U20 Italy v Ireland, 8pm, RTE2

Saturday
Italy v Ireland, 2:15pm, RTE2
Wales v England – 4:45pm, Virgin 1
Kerry v Armagh, 5:30pm, RTE2
Galway v Dublin, 7:30pm, TG4
France v Scotland, 8pm, RTE2

Sunday
Derry v Mayo, 1:30pm, TG4
Donegal v Tyrone, 3:30pm, TG4

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List of URC and Champions Cup matches on TV – BBC, Sky, RTE, Virgin & TG4

JoeNa Connacht — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:00:19 +0000

List of URC and Champions Cup matches on TV – BBC, Sky, RTE, Virgin & TG4, we have kick-off and live scores.

Cheltenham
Tues to Fri – 12:45 to 5pm, Virgin 1

Tuesday
Barcelona v Benfica, 5:30pm, Virgin 2
Leverkusen v Bayern, 8pm, Virgin 2

Wednesday
Lille v Dortmund, 5:30pm, Virgin 2
Aston Villa v Club Brugge, 8pm, Virgin2
Atletico v Real Madrid, 8pm, RTE2

Friday
St Pats v Bohs, 7:30pm, Virgin 2
U20 Italy v Ireland, 8pm, RTE2

Saturday
Italy v Ireland, 2:15pm, RTE2
Wales v England – 4:45pm, Virgin 1
Kerry v Armagh, 5:30pm, RTE2
Galway v Dublin, 7:30pm, TG4
France v Scotland, 8pm, RTE2

Sunday
Derry v Mayo, 1:30pm, TG4
Donegal v Tyrone, 3:30pm, TG4

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What We Learned This Week: 7 Talking Points from Ireland’s Rugby Week

JoeNa Connacht — Sun, 09 Mar 2025 18:13:29 +0000

What We Learned This Week: 7 Talking Points from Ireland’s Rugby Week

1. Caelan Doris: A Referee Conundrum Ireland Must Solve

Caelan Doris remains one of Ireland’s most respected and consistent performers. However, a strange pattern has emerged: certain referees seem to take issue with him. Whether it’s his timing at the breakdown, interpretation of laws, or just poor communication, Doris is drawing whistles too often. Ireland must address this before it costs them in a big game. A clearer approach with referees could turn this into a non-issue.

2. Andy Farrell’s Loyalty or Lack of Depth?

Head coach Andy Farrell faces increasing scrutiny for sticking with senior players who may be past their peak. Critics argue that the time has come to blood younger talent. But maybe the reality is harsher – perhaps the next generation isn’t quite ready. Either way, this selection dilemma is stalling progress and could hurt Ireland’s preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

3. Where Are Ireland’s Try-Scorers?

Scoring tries is Ireland’s Achilles heel right now. Tom Farrell leads the United Rugby Championship (URC) with six tries, and Caelan Doris – a back-row forward – tops the current Ireland starters with just four tries this season. That’s a major red flag. Less club-level rotation and a more settled backline might help, but Ireland need to identify a clinical finisher soon.

4. It’s Time to Back Ireland’s Young Talent

Ireland’s third-place finish in the Six Nations looks almost guaranteed, making next week’s trip to Italy a perfect opportunity to test new faces. Players like Cathal Forde, Shayne Bolton, and Matthew Devine deserve a chance. They’ve shown form, promise, and the kind of spark that Ireland is currently lacking. Even if they’re not long-term starters, they can inject fresh energy.

5. Sam Prendergast and the Aviva Embarrassment

In one of the more bizarre moments of the weekend, Sam Prendergast paused the restart of the second half for over 30 seconds while a song blared over the tannoy at the Aviva Stadium. It was meant to lift the atmosphere, but instead felt forced and awkward. This is international rugby – the theatre matters, but the rugby must come first.

6. Prendergast vs Crowley: World Cup 2027 Watch Begins

With the next World Cup firmly on the horizon, Sam Prendergast’s age becomes a huge asset. There’s little separating him from Jack Crowley in terms of ability right now, and both are expected to tour with Ireland this summer. That series could go a long way in shaping Ireland’s long-term future at out-half.

7. Under-20s in Trouble – But Not Doomed

Ireland’s U20 team is missing several key players and struggling to hit top form. But all is not lost. With time and hopefully a full squad, they could peak at the U20 World Championship this summer. This group has potential – they just need rhythm and some injury luck.

Conclusion:

This week highlighted some critical challenges for Irish rugby: a shortage of finishers, refereeing frustrations, and the ongoing question of how – and when – to integrate the next generation. There are positives, too. The likes of Prendergast, Forde, and Bolton offer real hope, and third place in the Six Nations isn’t a disaster. But with the 2027 Rugby World Cup in the distance and plenty of rugby to come, now is the time to act.

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Predicted Starting Teams – Ireland v France – Six Nations

JoeNa Connacht — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 20:47:39 +0000

Ireland’s Grand Slam Hopes Rest on Huge Test Against France

With three wins from three, Ireland are two victories away from a second Grand Slam in three years, but their biggest challenge of the Six Nations awaits as France arrive at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Simon Easterby, standing in as head coach while Andy Farrell focuses on his British & Irish Lions duties, has kept Ireland on course, but the final two rounds will determine whether they are remembered as champions or left disappointed.

A win over France would set up a final-day clash with Italy, where victory would guarantee the Grand Slam. However, a loss could be devastating for Ireland’s Six Nations title hopes, as their points difference is not as strong as France, leaving them vulnerable if the race comes down to the final standings.

Crunch Selection Calls for Easterby

The injury to Tadhg Furlong means Finlay Bealham is expected to return at tighthead, while a decision on his backup remains between Roman Salanoa and Tom O’Toole.

The good news is that Hugo Keenan, Caelan Doris, and Bundee Aki are all fit to return, adding significant quality to the starting XV.

However, Ireland could be without Mack Hansen, with reports suggesting he is struggling with injury. If he is ruled out, Jamie Osborne is expected to start at 14, giving the young Leinster back his biggest test yet on the international stage.

Predicted Ireland XV vs France

Starting Team:

15. Hugo Keenan
14. Jamie Osborne OR Mack Hansen
13. Robbie Henshaw
12. Bundee Aki
11. James Lowe
10. Jack Crowley
9. Jamison Gibson-Park
1. Andrew Porter
2. Dan Sheehan
3. Finlay Bealham
4. Joe McCarthy
5. Tadhg Beirne
6. Peter O’Mahony (captain)
7. Josh van der Flier
8. Caelan Doris

Replacements:

16. Rob Herring OR Gus McCarthy
17. Cian Healy
18. Roman Salanoa OR Tom O’Toole
19. James Ryan
20. Ryan Baird
21. Jack Conan
22. Conor Murray
23. Sam Prendergast

A Six Nations Showdown With Huge Consequences

Ireland know a victory over France keeps everything in their hands, with a home tie against Italy in the final round enough to seal another Grand Slam.

However, if Ireland lose on Saturday, their title hopes could slip away. England are still in contention, and with Ireland’s weaker points difference, a defeat could see them fall behind in the standings, even if they beat Italy in Round 5.

With home advantage and a Six Nations title on the line, Saturday at the Aviva Stadium could be one of the defining moments of Ireland’s campaign.

A win would put them one step from history. A loss could leave them empty-handed. The pressure is on.

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Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly)

JoeNa Connacht — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 20:06:52 +0000

Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly)

Last Updated: March 5, 2025

The 2025/26 season is on the horizon, and while player movement across Ireland’s four provinces has been minimal, a few key signings have been confirmed. Will we see more transfers in the coming weeks? Here’s a weekly updated list of confirmed signings for each province.

Munster – Leading the Transfer Market

Munster have been the most active province so far, confirming four signings:

Michael Milne (Prop, 25) – from Leinster (IRL)
Lee Barron (Hooker, 24) – from Leinster (IRL)
JJ Hanrahan (Fly-half, 32) – from Connacht (IRL)
Dan Kelly (Centre, 24) – from Leicester Tigers (ENG)

With two front-row additions, a playmaker, and a promising centre in Dan Kelly, Munster are strengthening across key areas.

Ulster – A Single But Significant Addition

Ulster have made just one signing so far:

Juarno Augustus (Back row, 27) – from Northampton Saints (ENG)

The powerful South African No. 8 will bring much-needed physicality to Ulster’s back row.

Leinster – No Confirmed Signings Yet

Leinster have yet to announce any additions. Given their incredible academy pipeline, they may not feel the need to recruit externally. Will that change?

Connacht – Yet to Enter the Market

Like Leinster, Connacht have yet to confirm any signings. With JJ Hanrahan leaving for Munster, will they look for a replacement?

Should We Be Concerned About the Lack of Transfers?

Compared to previous seasons, Irish rugby’s transfer activity has been unusually quiet. Munster and Ulster have made moves, but Leinster and Connacht remain inactive.

Are budgets tighter than before?
Is there confidence in homegrown talent?
Will we see late-window signings?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Latest Irish Rugby Transfers (Updated Weekly)

Province	Player	Position	Age	From
Munster	Michael Milne	Prop	25	Leinster
Munster	Lee Barron	Hooker	24	Leinster
Munster	JJ Hanrahan	Fly-half	32	Connacht
Munster	Dan Kelly	Centre	24	Leicester
Ulster	Juarno Augustus	Back row	27	Northampton
Leinster
Connacht

This table will be updated weekly as new signings are announced.

Have Your Say!

Are you surprised by the lack of movement so far? Which province needs to strengthen most? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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Top Referee Angus Gardner to Officiate Crucial Ireland vs. France Clash

JoeNa Connacht — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:24:36 +0000

Top Referee Angus Gardner to Officiate Crucial Ireland vs. France Clash

Angus Gardner has been confirmed as the referee for Saturday’s pivotal Six Nations showdown between Ireland and France, a game that could decide the championship.

The Australian official will be joined by England’s Matthew Carley and Christophe Ridley as assistant referees, with Ian Tempest overseeing TMO duties. Andrew Jackson has been appointed as the FPRO (Fourth Performance Review Official).

With the winner likely to go on and claim the Six Nations title, the stakes couldn’t be higher. If Ireland emerge victorious, they will be strong favourites to complete a Grand Slam, with only Italy standing in their way.

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Mack Hansen Commits Future to Ireland and Connacht with New Contract

JoeNa Connacht — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 10:25:46 +0000

Mack Hansen Commits Future to Ireland and Connacht with New Contract

The IRFU has confirmed that Mack Hansen has signed a new two-year deal, keeping him with Connacht and Ireland until at least the end of the 2026/27 season.

Connacht Rugby and @IrishRugby are delighted to confirm Mack Hansen has signed a two-year contract extension ⁰ #OneConnacht pic.twitter.com/LvmQ6aYgUI

— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) March 3, 2025

Since making his Test debut against Wales in February 2022, Hansen has been a standout performer in Ireland’s back three. The 25-year-old has earned 27 caps and crossed the whitewash 12 times, cementing his status as one of the most exciting attacking threats in the game.

Hansen’s meteoric rise saw him nominated for the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year in his first international season. His decision to remain in Ireland is another boost for Andy Farrell’s squad as they build towards Rugby World Cup 2027.

Having joined Connacht in 2021, Hansen has made 38 appearances for the province, quickly becoming a fan favourite in Galway and beyond.

Speaking about his contract extension, Hansen said:

“Since moving to Ireland, I’ve loved every minute, and I’m delighted to sign this new contract. Playing for Connacht and Ireland means a huge amount to me, and I feel like I’ve developed massively thanks to the coaching and structures here. There’s a lot to play for this season, and my focus is on finishing strongly with both club and country. I’d like to thank the IRFU for their faith in me, and I’m really excited for the future.”

IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys also welcomed the news:

“Mack has been a key player for Ireland and Connacht in recent years, and securing his future is a huge boost for Irish rugby. He’s a proven performer who thrives on the big stage and is a firm favourite with fans. We believe there’s still more to come from him, and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to progress.”

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Predicted URC Quarter-Finals: Who Makes the Top Eight?

JoeNa Connacht — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:55:46 +0000

With so many heavyweight clashes on the horizon, the URC playoffs promise to be one of the most exciting in years. Buckle up for a thrilling end to the season!

Predicted URC Quarter-Finals: Who Makes the Top Eight?

With the United Rugby Championship (URC) heading into the crucial final rounds, the playoff picture is beginning to take shape. Based on the latest standings and predicted results, we’ve forecasted the final league table and the quarter-final matchups. Here’s how the standings could look at the end of the regular season.

Predicted Final URC Table

Rank	Team	Played	Current Points	Predicted Additional Points	Final Points
1	Leinster	12	57	21	78
2	Sharks	11	34	30	64
3	Bulls	12	41	22	63
4	Glasgow Warriors	12	44	17	61
5	Stormers	12	28	28	56
6	Lions	11	28	26	54
7	Edinburgh	12	30	24	54
8	Munster	12	33	19	52
9	Connacht	12	29	15	44
10	Ospreys	12	28	15	43
11	Scarlets	12	28	14	42
12	Benetton	12	28	16	40
13	Ulster	12	27	13	40
14	Cardiff	12	31	9	40
15	Zebre	12	25	5	30
16	Dragons	12	8	2	10

Predicted URC Quarter-Finals

(1) Leinster vs (8) Munster

An all-Irish clash in the quarter-finals would be a blockbuster tie. Leinster, currently unbeaten, look set to finish as the top seed. Munster, sneaking into eighth, will face a huge challenge in Dublin. The 2023 champions will need a massive performance to upset their fierce rivals.

(2) Sharks vs (7) Edinburgh

The Sharks’ surge in form is expected to secure them the second seed, and they will welcome Edinburgh to South Africa. The Scottish side will need to be at their absolute best to take down a Sharks team filled with Springbok talent.

(3) Bulls vs (6) Lions

A fierce South African derby, this fixture would be an intense battle between two physical sides. The Bulls’ set-piece dominance could be a crucial factor, while the Lions will look to play an expansive game to keep their playoff hopes alive.

(4) Glasgow Warriors vs (5) Stormers

This clash between the Scottish and South African powerhouses promises fireworks. Glasgow’s home advantage will be key, but the Stormers are a dangerous side in the knockout stages. Expect a fast-paced, high-quality encounter.

Who Misses Out?

Connacht, currently eighth, are projected to drop out of the playoff places due to strong finishes from Edinburgh and the South African teams. Ospreys, Scarlets, and Benetton will also fall just short despite some promising performances. Ulster’s struggles continue, and they too are expected to miss out.

Final Thoughts

If these predictions hold, the URC quarter-finals will feature a thrilling mix of Irish, Scottish, and South African teams. Leinster will be the clear favourites, but with three South African teams in the top eight, the title could be heading back to the Southern Hemisphere. Glasgow and Munster will look to prove they can challenge for silverware, while Edinburgh will aim to cause an upset.

With so many heavyweight clashes on the horizon, the URC playoffs promise to be one of the most exciting in years. Buckle up for a thrilling end to the season!

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