Betfred suspends betting on new Saints coach as Holbrook announcement expected

Super League sponsor Betfred has suspended betting on who will be the new St Helens coach, following a flood of betting activity with punters backing Sydney Roosters assistant coach Justin Holbrook for the job. TotalRL understands that Holbrook has now secured the role and will be announced in due course.

Holbrook, a former halfback, shown here in his playing days with Penrith Panthers, had been the second favourite for the job, priced at 8/1 until Sunday, when “money started pouring in”, according to a Betfred spokesman, from punters in St Helens and Wigan.

The company reduced Holbrook’s odds to evens, but has now suspended betting completely.

St Helens are expected to make an announcement about their new coach this week.

Holbrook is currently coaching the Junior Kangaroos, who will play the Junior Kiwis this Friday.