22/01/2008 14:13

Cape Town - Leading bookmakers Ladbrokes have installed six-time champions, the Crusaders, as favourites to win the 2008 Super 14 title.

Defending champions, the Bulls, are joint second favourites with the Blues from New Zealand.

Beaten finalists this year, the Sharks, appear to offer decent value at 9/1 while there is little support for the other three South African franchises, with the Cheetahs (40/1), Stormers (50/1) and Lions (100/1) quoted as rank outsiders.

The tournament kicks off on Friday, February 15 with the Crusaders hosting the Brumbies in Christchurch.

Latest odds:

Crusaders 5/2
Bulls 4/1
Blues 4/1
Sharks 9/1
Chiefs 10/1
Hurricanes 10/1
Waratahs 11/1
Brumbies 16/1
Force 33/1
Cheetahs 40/1
Stormers 50/1
Highlanders 100/1
Lions 100/1
Reds 100/1

Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes.