The countdown is well and truly on to kick-off at Wembley Stadium, as Leeds and Castleford are set to do battle for the Challenge Cup.
But as well as the team honours at stake, there is also the prestigious Lance Todd Trophy on offer – as voted for by members of the media who are in attendance at Wembley on the day. There have been some truly great names that have gotten their hands on the trophy in the past – including Leeds’ Kevin Sinfield, who won it for his performance during Leeds’ defeat to Hull FC in the 2005 final.
For the best previews, in-match action and post-match fallout from the Challenge Cup Final, stay tuned to TotalRL.com – and pick up a copy of Monday’s League Express
But who are the frontrunners this year? We’ve collected some odds from top bookmakers (thanks to the friendly people at Oddschecker) around the world to assess the main contenders for the trophy – as well as a couple of good outside bets – along with the best odds for EVERY player who could potentially play! (NB. Mitch Achurch and Stevie Ward are not included, after Brian McDermott confirmed his team on Monday)
Favourite: Kevin Sinfield (Leeds) – Best Odds 15/2 (Stan James)
Other odds: 13/2 SkyBet, 6/1 Ladbrokes
He’s already won it once ion the past – and if Leeds do triumph on Saturday, it’s easy to see why Sinfield is regarded as the outright favourite to win the Lance Todd Trophy for a second time in his career. He’ll have a big say in the outcome of the game – and there will be plenty of money being placed on Sinfield to grab the prize.
Second Favourite: Jamie Peacock (Leeds) – Best Odds 9/1 (Stan James)
Other odds: 13/2 SkyBet, 8/1 Ladbrokes
Peacock is the only member of the Leeds squad to have tasted Challenge Cup success, and his incredible form this season could be one of the big factors in whether or not Leeds win the Challenge Cup. His tussle with Andy Lynch should be worth the entrance fee alone – so keep an eye on Peacock.
Third Favourite: Daryl Clark (Castleford) – Best Odds 10/1 (Stan James)
Other odds: 7/1 SkyBet, 10/1 Ladbrokes
If anyone from Castleford is going to win the Lance Todd Trophy, the bookies seem to think Daryl Clark is the most likely contender. And why not? He’s been in sensational form for the Tigers in 2014 – and will providing a telling input from the interchange bench.
Outside Bet: Craig Huby (Castleford) – Best Odds 80/1 (Stan James)
Other odds: 66/1 Bet365, 40/1 Paddypower
If you’re looking for an outside chance to make you some big money, Craig Huby has to be worth a look. At best odds 80/1, he looks to be real value – especially if the Tigers win. Kris Radlinski overcame injury to win the trophy in 2002, and with Huby in such sparkling form, he could be worth £1 of your money as an outsider!
Best Odds for every other player
Castleford Tigers
Luke Dorn 11/1, Sneyd 16/1, Shenton 20/1, Finn 22/1, Gibson 33/1, Ellis 40/1, Dixon 40/1, Lynch 50/1, Webster 50/1, Channing 50/1, Mariano 66/1, Carvell 66/1, Holmes 66/1, Hauraki 66/1, Milner 80/1, Jewitt 80/1, Wheeldon 80/1, Massey 100/1
Leeds Rhinos
Rob Burrow 11/1, Zak Hardaker 9/1, McGuire 18/1, Watkins 20/1, Hall 20/1, Ablett 22/1, Delaney 22/1, Moon 33/1, Walters 33/1, Sutcliffe 33/1, Aiton 33/1, Briscoe 33/1, Delaney 40/1, Jones-Buchanan 40/1, Singleton 50/1, Clarkson 50/1, Leuluai 80/1, Bailey 80/1, Kirke 100/1.
