Springboks v British and Irish Lions
On a South African tour the whole event turns on the Springboks — and no rugby bet means more at home. Here are the ways to back the Boks against the Lions, and what to weigh up.
Ways to back the Boks against the Lions
The big one is the series — South Africa to win the three-Test series, or the correct series score such as 2-1 or 3-0. Match by match you can back the Boks on the result, the handicap and first try scorer in each Test. As the world's most successful side, settled and at home, the Springboks usually head the series and Test odds on a home tour.
What to weigh up
The Boks beat the Lions on home soil in 2021 and start most home Tests as favourites, but a touring side that gels can swing a single Test and with it the series — which is exactly why backing South Africa early in the series market, at a bigger price, can hold value over backing them at short odds in the opener. Pair it with the British Irish Lions predictions page and the British and Irish Lions guide for the full picture.
Frequently asked questions
When did the Springboks last play the Lions?
In 2021, when the Lions toured South Africa and the Springboks won the three-Test series. The next Lions tour of South Africa falls around 2033, after New Zealand in 2029.
What are the best ways to bet on the Springboks against the Lions?
The series result and correct series score, plus match-by-match betting on each Test — the result, the handicap and first try scorer. The Boks usually head the market on a home tour.