Month: September 2020

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The Springboks’ 3 Rugby World Cup Wins

The Springboks’ 3 Rugby World Cup Wins

‘Sport has the power to change the world’. Former South African president, Nelson Mandela coined this popular phrase during his speech at the inaugural Laureus World Sports Awards 2000. For a sports-mad country such as South Africa sports has a positive impact. Socio-economic disparity, widespread crime and government corruption all remain a concern for the everyday South African. However, sport has proven to be the great unifying factor in a country trying so desperately to get out of the rut that it finds itself in. Cricket, rugby and football are the ‘big 3’ sports in South Africa. While soccer may have the largest following, it is the national rugby team, the Springboks, who have had the greatest success on the global stage. Most recently the Boks clinched the 2019 Rugby World Cup (RWC) title. It is safe to say that South Africans are still on a high following this success.

Making a mark in 1995 – the first Springbok Rugby World Cup Win

Newbies

South African sport returned to the international stage in 1992. Due to the country’s apartheid policies, the nation had been in isolation since 1964. As such, the first two editions of the Rugby World Cup in 1987 and 1991 took place without the Springbok involvement. Subsequently, South Africa was awarded the right to host the 1995 event. With minimal international exposure prior to the competition, the Springboks entered the showpiece as relative unknowns. In the opening game against reigning world champions Australia, the Boks shocked the world with a winning performance. Led by captain Francois Pienaar and coached by Kitch Christie, the team progressed confidently through the different stages of the tournament.

Going all the way

After narrowly beating France in a wet semi-final, the Boks faced up to tournament favourites the All Blacks in the final. In their semi-final, rugby great Jonah Lomu nearly single-handedly won the game for New Zealand. The four tries he scored, along with his physical contribution to that game remains a YouTube favourite to this day. The final itself was a nervy affair, with neither team managing to score a try. The Boks managed to negate the threat of Lomu, and in extra time a Joel Stransky drop goal sealed the victory for South Africa. Many would say that the most significant moment was still to come. The then President Nelson Mandela presented the trophy to Francois Pienaar while wearing the captain’s number 6 Bok jersey. This moment is remembered as a time when the country united behind the successful Springbok team.

The in-between years

In the years following the success of 1995, South African rugby experienced some wonderful highs and some terrible lows. The 1998 team under Nick Mallet enjoyed great success in winning the Tri Nations. They also recorded a record (albeit tied) winning streak of 17 games. After their semi-final defeat to eventual champions Australia in the 1999 World Cup, Springbok rugby entered a dark era littered with record defeats to nations such as England and France. This period culminated in the loss against New Zealand in the quarter final of the 2003 World Cup. England ended up winning the final against Australia. This was the earliest stage that a Bok team had departed from the global showpiece.

Regaining the mantle in 2007

A new dawn

A dejected Bok team returned from the 2003 World Cup. Moral was at an all-time low, and the general public was fed up with mediocre performances. Enter new coach Jake White. White had a grand plan and had nothing but belief in the potential for SA rugby. With the team overhauled, John Smit was appointed captain.

In the first test match series contested under White and Smit, the Boks emerged victors against a touring Ireland team. A popular story from that time is that Jake told the team then already that they would win the 2007 Rugby World Cup. Building on the momentum that winning brings, the Boks subsequently won the 2004 Tri Nations and earned the title of IRB team of the year. Springbok rugby was back with a bang.

The years building up to the 2007 World Cup featured more Bok success than not. The three consecutive victories against England in late 2006 and early 2007 are considered pivotal in their success at the World Cup that year.

French success – the second Rugby World Cup win

Going into the tournament, South Africa had a highly experienced squad who had enjoyed more instances of success than not since 2003.

The pool match against England was targeted by the Springboks as being critical in their quest for World Cup glory. As it transpired, the Boks emerged victors in a one-sided match. This win ensured that SA finished top of their pool, and thus had an easier path to the final.

The quarter and semi-final matches against Fiji and Argentina were tighter than the scorelines suggest, but the Boks still found themselves in their second World Cup final. They would meet a resurgent England in the decider. Both Australia and France were put away in the knockout stages by an England team who found themselves on an upward trajectory after their pool stage loss to the Boks.

The final was a low scoring match, whereby all the points came from the boots of the team’s respective kickers. While not the whitewash of their previous encounter, South Africa were never behind on the scoreboard and managed to win the game 15-6. For the second time in their history the Boks held aloft the William Webb Ellis trophy as world champions.

Period of frustration

Winning the 2009 series against the British and Irish Lions, along with Tri Nation success in the same year was the Springbok high point in the years to come. Failing to progress further than the quarter final in the 2011 World Cup was a big disappointment. Many believed that this was perhaps an even better Bok team than the one that took the 2007 title. It was not meant to be, and New Zealand took home their first title since their victory in the inaugural competition. Inconsistent performances and more record losses were the talking points around a Bok team that again failed to live up to expectations at the 2015 World Cup. Although only narrowly losing out to eventual victors New Zealand in the semi-final, one never felt that the SA side of the time had it in them.

2019 Rugby World Cup glory

Late changes

Rassie Erasmus, the coach who would guide the Boks to their 3rd title was only appointed as head coach in the beginning of 2018. This afforded precious little time to get a dysfunctional team prepared for the 2019 event. Most teams begin preparation for World Cups four years in advance, but Rassie effectively only had 18 months. The 2018 season was a mixed bag of results. Beating the All Blacks away from home for the first time since 2009 was perhaps the moment of the year. Winning the Rugby Championship in 2019 albeit in a shortened version, would have given the Boks the confidence they needed going into the World Cup.

Japanese triumph

Led by charismatic captain Siya Kolisi, the Boks entered the World Cup with a quiet confidence. Losing to New Zealand in their first game wasn’t a complete disaster, as it presented the team with a perceived easier path to the final.

Quarter final opponents Japan were enjoying an amazing run in the tournament. Bolstered by the support of the home crowds, Japan beat established top tier nations Ireland and Scotland in the pool stages. The Boks however had no problem putting away the passionate Japanese.

The semi-final encounter against Wales was a close affair. A Handre Pollard penalty 5 minutes from time sealed the game for the South Africans.

Meeting the Boks in the final were an English team on a high after beating perennial favourites New Zealand in their semi-final. The Springboks saved their best performance for the final. They completely outplayed and out muscled their foes from the North. The two second half tries by Makazole Mapimpi and Cheslin Kolbe put the result beyond doubt. South Africa were world champions for the third time!

We are the rugby world champions again…. and we are excited about South African rugby!

All three World Cup triumphs have had a unifying effect in a country constantly battling to rid itself of its dark past. The Springbok success on the grandest stage of all has inspired hope. While sport doesn’t solve the daily issues many South Africans face, it does bring people together in pursuit of a common cause. We can only hope that the proud and united feeling we all felt when Siya Kolisi lifted the World Cup in 2019 will be a catalyst for positive change in our country.

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The South African Premier Soccer League (PSL)

The South African Premier Soccer League (PSL)

Watched by an estimated 13 Million people, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) is one of the most popular sporting events in South Africa. It is the only professional football league in South Africa. Getting the chance to play in this league is the aspiration of many a young South African.

About the PSL

League structure

The PSL was founded in 1996 after the National Soccer League reached an agreement with the National Premier Soccer League. It is associated with the South African Football Association (SAFA) and is the administrator of professional football in South Africa.

The PSL consists of two club divisions, the Premier Soccer League and the National First Division (NFD). The premier division consists of 16 teams, who compete against each other in the ‘Premiership’. The season traditionally runs from August to May.

For a decade, the winning team took home a prize of 10 million rand. This number increased to 15 million rand for the 2019/ 2020 season.

Financially the PSL is going from strength to strength. For the 2018/ 2019 financial year, the PSL reported a revenue of 1 billion rand. This being a first in the history of South African football.

How the league works

Each team plays each other twice in a season. Once at home, and once away over the course of 30 games. A total of 480 games are played per season. The winning team collects three points, while in the case of a draw, each team receives a single point. The winner is the team that finishes with the most points at the end of their 30 games.

The team that finishes at the bottom of the PSL log faces the reality of relegation to the NFD. Subsequently, promotion to the PSL awaits the winner of the NFD. The team that finishes 15th in the PSL competes in a round robin playoff with the second and third placed teams in the NFD. The winner of this playoff also gains a place in the PSL for the following season.

History of the PSL

Manning Rangers won the first edition of the PSL in 1997. Coached by Gordon Igesund, the team were surprise winners and managed to take the title ahead of more established clubs.

The following season saw Mamelodi Sundowns win the league for the first time. They have managed to take the title a further eight times over the years. Affectionally known as Sundowns, this club also has the most titles (9 in total) to their name.

Kaiser Chiefs and Orlando Pirates,the big two clubs that dominate South African football, at least from a fan base perspective, share the next most titles with four apiece. Over the 23 PSL seasons completed, only seven teams have managed to win the title.

From a managerial point of view, there have only been five managers who guided a team to the title. This statistic alone, points to the fact that most of these managers have enjoyed success at multiple clubs.

Current state of the PSL

How the log stands

The COVID-19 pandemic has not spared the PSL. As with other sports, the teams are awaiting the green light to compete again. The 2019/ 2020 season is still not complete. As it stands, Kaiser Chiefs top the log, followed by Mamelodi Sundowns and Supersport United. Last season’s champions, Sundowns will be hoping to use their remaining nine games to close the gap on the log leaders. Chiefs fans, however, will be hoping their team stays on course to collect a fifth title, and a first in five years.

Amazulu and Black Leopards occupy the opposite end of the log, and both teams are eager to get back to winning ways.

There are eight teams within eight points of each other at the bottom of the table, and so there is still a lot to play for once the remaining games resume.

Sponsorship of the league

With ABSA announcing their withdrawal as title sponsors of the league from the end of the current season, the PSL has been on the lookout to find an adequate replacement for the forthcoming season. The South African Premier League will no longer be called ABSA Premier League – but what will the new name be?

This is no easy feat. The financial support provided by ABSA over the years has been substantial. Reportedly, there are four contenders to take over the league. An announcement of the new sponsor should take place once the current season concludes. Rumour has it that Betway, who recently agreed a 3-years partnership deal with Cricket South Africa, are one of the four in contention. Should they be announced as title sponsors it would be a lucrative deal for the company., They would then be involved in two of the three big sports within South Africa (the third sport being rugby).

South African football fans are itching to see their favourite teams in action again. We really hope that the PSL gets back to business sooner rather than later.

You are interested in South African soccer and betting on it? Then have a look at our recommended operators for soccer betting. There surely will be good odds and special promotions available. PSL matches are also part of Soccer 13 and Soccer 6. Use your knowledge about the PSL and other football leagues to win big.

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Betting Strategy & Tips

Secure Online Payment Methods Guide

Secure Online Payment Methods Guide

Read our online payment methods guide to understand what the most widely used and secure methods in South Africa are.

Online bookmakers across South Africa almost all offer the same deposit options. Credit and debit cards, secure instant online EFT and various online vouchers are widely accepted. The payment method offering nevertheless differs from online bookmaker to bookmaker.

Debit and Credit Cards

The most used and accepted online payment methods of all are Debit Cards and Credit Cards. Most SA bookies accept Visa, Visa Electron, MasterCard and MasterCard Maestro. These are widely available and highly secure for online payments. Plus, bookmakers will also not charge you for using these.

Please note that bookmakers in South Africa currently do not refund withdrawals to credit or debit cards.

SiD Secure EFT (Electronic Fund Transfer)

SiD as a company have been around since 2007 giving them enough time to know what works for the South African betting market – and what does not. It is one of many instant EFT facilitators. Other providers are Peach Payments, i-Pay OZOW and PayFast, all offered for example by Hollywoodbets.

All EFT payment systems work in the same manner, allowing players to safely and securely transfer funds directly from their bank account to the bookmaker’s account without the need for a card. Funds are also available instantly.

EFT is supported by most banks in South Africa such as ABSA, Capitec Bank, FNB, Investec, Nedbank and Standard Bank. It is one of the most widely trusted and used payment method online and very easy to use. Once logged into your betting account, visit the cashier and choose SiD (EFT) as the payment method. Then select the bank you hold an account with, enter your online banking login details and complete the transaction.

This instant deposit methods is one of the most secure online payment methods and simple to use. Bookmakers such as Betway.co.za won’t charge you for using it. Be sure to check for any associated costs your bank might charge for electronic transfers.

We do like bookmakers who also send our winnings using instant EFT. There is really nothing better than receiving your winnings instantly, even if there might be a cost involved. One bookie that offers it is for example 10bet. For learn more about the payment options with this bookie have a look at our 10bet Banking Guide.

Direct Bank Transfers

Some players still feel that logging into their online banking through a third party is just not for them. Therefore, they don’t trust instant EFT transfers and rather prefer direct bank transfers.

You can transfer funds to your online betting account by adding the bookmaker as a beneficiary and making a payment. Although this method usually takes a little longer, you might feel more secure and have full control.

All South African banks offer their customers bank transfers. Unfortunately some bookmakers do not have bank accounts with specific banks and hence might not be able to accept payments. In other instances there could be additional bank transfer charges. If unsure, always contact the support desk for more information on using direct bank transfers.

Most online sportsbook operators in South Africa also use direct bank transfers for transferring your winnings. As with instant EFT, there might be an extra charge for receiving your winnings using this method.

Vouchers

1Voucher and OTT Vouchers

You don’t have access to a credit or debit card or other banking facilities? You just don’t want to use cards online? This does not stop you from being able to deposit funds into your online betting account as you can use vouchers instead.

This easy to use method is as simple as loading an airtime voucher on your phone. Simply purchase your 1Voucher or OTT voucher at a participating outlet. Then log in to your account, select the voucher type you are using, enter your pin and click submit.

You can now also buy OTT vouchers online directly from their website. To complete your transaction you will however need access to online banking . Once you have completed your purchase, you will receive your OTT voucher pin via SMS as well as having the details displayed on screen.


You can buy your 1For You Voucher from retailers such as PEP, Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, Dealz, Ackermans, OK and many others and also online.

OTT vouchers are available online and at more than 75,000 outlets across the country including Game, Makro, Builders and Caltex.

You can use these vouchers at almost all the big online sportsbooks in South Africa, including Hollywood Bets, Betway, Gbets, PlayaBet or Bet.co.za. Be sure to read through our detailed sportsbook reviews to see available deposit methods.

Please note: online vouchers cannot be used to receive your winning.

Blu Voucher

While you can use them for a variety of online activities, online betting is where they’re most useful. They come across multiple price ranges, starting at R2 and going up to R1,000. You will receive a special 16-digit pin after purchasing a Blu Voucher, which you can use to redeem it online.

For more details have a look at our detailed article Blu Vouchers where we give you all the required information.

While the above vouchers can be used across a variety of betting sites one bookie has gone a step further and offers its own vouchers. Read more about Betway Bucks Vouchers in our detailed guide.

Alternative Online Deposit & Withdrawal Payment Methods

Above we have listed the most used secure online payment methods by South African punters. But we did think that it is worth mentioning that there are a few more methods available to use online.

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) offered by Betway is an innovative way of topping up your account without the need for mobile data. Making use of your phone to communicate with your service provider, like checking your airtime balance or topping up through SMS messages. Not only can you fund your account, you can also check your balance or request a withdrawal. More information on using this method is available on the BetWay website.

Bookies such as Hollywood Bets, Gbets and Sunbet also offer their customers the option to fund their online account by visiting one of their retail outlets.

The majority of South African bookmakers will refund winnings through EFT or OTT instant pay-outs allowing users, even if they don’t have a bank account, to visit their nearest ATM, enter their unique code and withdraw their winnings.

And remember…

As part of the bookmaker’s regulatory obligations all players need to undergo FICA. This might seem like a pain, but this procedure is there to ensure the safety of all customers. It also gives peace of mind that you are betting with a licensed operator. For more information on FICA and betting online, please read our detailed FICA guide.

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Popular sports in South Africa

Popular sports in South Africa

On any given weekend, the South African sports fan is not short on options when it comes to choosing what sport to tune into. South Africans are a proud and passionate nation when it comes to sports. The unifying factor of sport has been the greatest asset for a diverse country still coming to terms with its identity post the Apartheid era. While South African’s have realised success on the global stage in a large array of sports, the ‘Big Three’ are by far the most popular sports in South Africa. Football, cricket and rugby are responsible for the lion’s share of the nation’s sporting obsession.

Football in South Africa

About South African football

Football, or soccer as it is referred to in South Africa, is the sport with the largest following. Over two million people play football, while the fan base is exponentially larger. The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is the largest and most successful tournament of its kind on the African continent. The league has been the breeding ground for many a South African football star.

Many local players, with their roots in the PSL, have found success in the English Premier League. Players such as Lucas Radebe, Benni McCarthy and Steven Pienaar have all enjoyed fruitful careers in the grandest league of them all. Back on the local front, the PSL is the main league from which players are selected for call ups to play for their country.

Bafana Bafana

The national team is affectionately known as Bafana Bafana. The term meaning ‘Go boys! Go boys!’ was coined by fans in the early nineties. The team has had mixed success over the years. In 1996 Bafana Bafana won the African Cup of Nations that South Africa hosted. The team qualified and took part in the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cup. In 2010 South Africa hosted the event, this being a first for Africa. Bafana Bafana again took part and were responsible for scoring the opening goal of the tournament.

Since then, the national team has endured some lean years, not qualifying for any subsequent World Cups. However, the football fan base and the sport’s popularity in South Africa has continued to grow since hosting the global showpiece.

South African cricket

About South African cricket

Cricket in South Africa is the Summer sport with the largest following. The sheer amount of cricket to play is substantial. School, club and provincial games fill the sporting calendar in the Summer season.

For the non-playing fans, there are countless games and formats which they can follow. Test, one day and twenty- twenty cricket occur on a regular basis.

Every year, various international touring teams, such as Australia, England and India visit to compete against the South African national team. Some of the greatest rivalries in cricket have occurred over the years on South African soil.

National team

The national cricket team is referred to as the Proteas. Named after the national flower of South Africa, the team has been one of the top cricketing nations for the last 29 years.

While being regulars within the top five world rankings for One Day International (ODI) and test cricket, a win in a major tournament still eludes the Proteas. With world class players such as Jacques Kallis, Makhaya Ntini and Dale Steyn in the team over the years, the team has not managed to replicate their out of tournament form when it counts. The Proteas have only ever reached the semi-final stage of the ICC Cricket World Cup.

Arguably the team’s greatest victory came against Australia in 2006. The Proteas managed to chase down their opponent’s total, to reach the record score (at the time) of 438 runs. This game is still fondly remembered in South African cricketing circles. One feels that South Africa need to replicate this sort of performance if they are to finally realise the dream of winning the Cricket World Cup.

South African Rugby

SA rugby explained

We are still riding on the high from the success of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Rugby is arguably the most successful mainstream sport from a South African perspective. This success has inspired many a young schoolboy to dream of playing for the South African national team, the Springboks.

Played and supported throughout the country, and across cultures, rugby in South Africa can at times feel like a religion. The Currie Cup, the domestic rugby tournament played between provinces has been around since 1891. Winning the trophy in this current day and age remains a prestigious achievement

Springboks

The Springbok name originated in 1906, during the first international rugby tour to the United Kingdom by the South African team. The captain at the time decided on the Springbok as the emblem that should be present on the players jerseys. It has remained this way ever since.

Three times world champions (in 1995, 2007 & 2019) and multiple winners of various competitions and tours, the Springboks are highly regarded among the global rugby fraternity. The team experienced a few wayward years from 201 onwards. However, over the last while under the guidance of coach Rassie Erasmus and captain Siya Kolisi, the team returned to the top of world rugby in 2019.

The future looks bright for South African rugby, and the focus is now on the upcoming British & Irish Lions tour in 2021.

COVID-19 has been a difficult time for sports fans, but if anything, the passion for one’s favourite sport has only increased over this time. In South Africa, football, cricket and rugby fans are eagerly awaiting the day that that the most popular sports return to live action – and with it the online betting variety.

You like to participate in online betting on the popular sports in South Africa? The best starting point is our TOP 10 listings of licensed operators and well as our detailed reviews for each operator we can recommend.

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COVID-19 and the horse racing industry

COVID-19 and the horse racing industry

For the first time in its history, the Durban July took place behind closed doors. The fact that the event was still able to take place is testament to the resilience of the horse racing industry. With Covid-19 affecting the entire sporting industry, horse racing has adapted as best possible.

Horse racing in South Africa

Estimated to contribute 3 Billion Rand a year to the South African economy, horse racing in South Africa is a big deal. Employing about sixty thousand people, the industry has been around for a long time- the first reported races dating to 1985. Two of the most popular events are the Met and the Durban July.

The Met, a Summer event held in Cape Town is part of the Western Cape’s scene and has been around since 1883. The Durban July in comparison, is a Kwazulu Natal Winter event dating to 1897. Regarded as the premier event in South Africa, the winner of the July takes home 2.5 Million Rand in prize money. Gauteng also offers a spread of events in Autumn and Spring. This completes a year-round offering for horse racing enthusiasts.

Both directly and indirectly, the horse racing industry provides for thousands of jobs. One cannot deny the positive economic impact it has for the country.

COVID-19 impact on horse racing

With all sports postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the horse racing industry has been hit particularly hard. The sheer quantity of people involved in the industry is large. From the jockeys, to the trainers and the grooms, all involved will have felt the economic impact. The breeders were specifically affected, as with no racing, there was no demand for horses and hence no income. While there was a halt in competitive racing, the people involved in the industry felt a great deal of unease. The downstream effect of the shutdown effectively halted not only an individual’s capacity to earn an income. It also affected the horses directly. Tragically, the number of horses being euthanised increased drastically. Up to 400 horses were at risk of this fate for every month lost. The lack of demand for horses and the high running costs all contributed to this terrible scenario.

The comeback of horse racing after the COVID-19 shutdown

On the 1st of June, horse racing resumed on a ‘behind closed doors’ basis. Some of the protocols introduced are that jockeys are not able to travel between provinces, only essential personnel can be present at the events, and no spectators can attend. However, both racing and betting have resumed. The Durban July, which traditionally takes place on the 1st Saturday of July took place later in the month on Saturday the 25th. While no spectators could attend, an expected R200 Million in bets were still placed. In all accounts, the event was a success. More importantly, the largest relief would be the fact that all involved in the industry can continue with their jobs. Thankfully the well-being of the horses is also no longer a concern.

The future of horse racing in South Africa

While nobody can predict how long the Covid-19 pandemic will last, the glimmer of hope is that horse racing has now returned. As the lockdown levels ease, more ‘normality’ will be able to return. One would predict that the 1st event where spectators can attend will sell out. The question around whether the sport will be able to return to its previous levels of success remains. Even before the pandemic this industry was widely reported to be on the decline., The major role players will need to adapt to the new environment that sport in general finds itself in. It could be argued that a public starved from sport, will flock to all events once allowed.

The challenge will be how to build on the surge of interest expected once spectators can physically attend again. Subsequently, role players will need to consider how to keep the online betting in focus while at the same time attempting to satisfy traditional punters.

If anything, the Covid-19 pandemic has taught different industries how to adapt to the changing environment. Sport specifically has had to focus on how to maintain the entertainment factor, while operating behind closed doors. Can the horse racing industry combine the new normal of racing behind closed doors with its traditional blueprint once the lockdown levels allow? One can only hope that the way forward will make for an even greater product for all.

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Esports versus virtual sports

Esports versus virtual sports

With the world still fully in the eye of the storm that is COVID-19, live sports have on the most part all but ceased. With this vacuum in sporting entertainment, esports and virtual sports have burst into the limelight. These 2 online-based ‘sports’ have become an alternative for traditional sports fans and punters alike. 

What is the difference between the esports and virtual sports? 

Esports 

Simply put, esports is organized video gaming at a competitive level, played by professionals. The games played vary from first-person shooter iterations such as Counterstrike and Call of Duty, to sports games such a FIFA and NBA 2K. These games, streamed online and available to view live at the same time, transform gaming into a spectator sport. 

Esport players generally practice and compete in their respective game, much like traditional sports professionals do. And as with traditional sports, the prize money on offer in esports tournaments is substantial indeed. 

Tournaments host the most popular games, thus providing a level of excitement to esports- much like the frenzy associated with sporting moments such as the Football World Cup. The ability to follow the progress of esports stars is not dissimilar to the following of certain sports celebrities in the traditional sporting world.  

The e sports industry is a lucrative one for all involved. Players, game developers and tournament organisers all benefit. One must not forget the online sports betting industry either. 

Virtual Sports 

Virtual Sports, inspired by real life sporting events such as football and horse racing, are computer-generated sports, that have no human intervention. This leaves the result of the game dependent on advanced algorithms and random number generator software.  

The path and outcome of the match are based on the virtual player skill. This thus creates an accurate simulation. Virtual sports are effectively recreations of actual sporting events, whereby no players actively control the outcome. Since the events in the matches themselves are all computer generated, the results are fair for all. 

While esports require a level of game and player knowledge, starting out in virtual sports does not require that level of investment. All one needs is time and a willingness to understand the relevant game. 

As with esports, virtual sports are also significant players in the online sports betting industry.  

How does betting in Esports and Virtual Sports differ? 

Traditional sports betting has taken a back seat during the current pandemic. Both esports and virtual sports have conversely enjoyed a surge in popularity. Sports bettors have shifted their focus to these 2 online offerings. One could predict that even once traditional sport resumes, the market share gained by esports and virtual sports betting will not be all lost.  

Esports betting 

Esports betting is straight forward, and it is not unlike the live sport model. Wagers are made on who is predicted to win an event, based on the odds provided. 

One of the many reasons for the popularity around e-sports betting, is the fact that games / tournaments occur year-round. They do not have specific seasons, as is the norm in traditional sports. For punters looking for consistent action in the game of their choice, esports provide the perfect medium in which to meet this demand.  

Virtual sports betting 

Virtual sports betting allows punters to bet as they would in live matches. Statistics would be the major base for predictions within virtual sports. In live sport, there are many real-world factors that do not come into consideration in virtual sports, such as player injuries, weather etc.  

Virtual sports occur over a brief period of time. Matches are over within minutes and are available around the clock. This allows for many games to take place, and thus just as many opportunities to place bets. 

Jika sports, an example of a virtual sports betting platform has recently launched in South Arica. Football and horse racing are the games on offer. Games take place every 6 minutes, and thus new bets occur at these intervals too. 

What is the future for esports and virtual sports? 

With no clear end in sight, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the world over. With challenges faced in the live sport arena, the opportunity for online alternatives is great. Both esports and virtual sports, while not new should both continue to prosper in the current environment. They have a great opportunity to gain new audiences in the foreseeable future. 

Similarly, the betting component around these 2 online sports should also continue to prosper in markets world over. 

For sports fans suffering from withdrawal symptoms from the lack of their favourite sport, this may be the perfect time to explore new online betting alternatives. 

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News

2021 Lions Tour to South Africa

2021 Lions Tour to South Africa

‘Payback versus validation’, these will be the contrasting themes at play for the 2021 British & Irish Lions tour of South Africa. 

The reigning world champions will be out to prove that their 2019 Rugby World Cup win was no fluke. The Boks will be eager to emulate their counterparts of 2009, who were not only World Champs at the time, but who were also able to win the series against the Lions 2-1. 

The Lions on the other hand will be looking to get back to winning ways versus a South African opposition. While their previous 2 tours to Australia and New Zealand ended with a series win (against Australia) and a draw (against the All Blacks who were World Champs at the time), their last foray to South Africa in 2009 was less successful. The last series victory by the Lions against the Springboks came in 1997. Therefore, the tourists will be keen to add 2021 to the winners list. 

The fact that Wales and England are the beaten semi-finalists and finalists of the 2019 World Cup adds more spice. Many of the home nation players participated in these games. Therefore, winning the series would help ease some of the pain from those respective losses against the Boks. 

The Power of Four 

The British & Irish Lions, a United Kingdom rugby union touring team, consist of only the best players from the ‘home nations’ of Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales. The Lions, as they are affectionally known, tour every 4 years. These tours alternate between the Southern hemisphere powerhouses of South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. 

How did the Lions Tour start? 

The inaugural Lions tour was in 1888 and consisted of a visit to Australia and New Zealand. Instead of test matches a series of games were conducted between provincial and club teams.  

South Africa had to wait until 1891 for the first Lions tour to grace her shores. 20 matches were played during the tour. These included 3 tests, all of which were won by the visitors. Since then the Lions had limited success against South Africa by winning only 4 series of the 13 contested (the last of which was in 1997). 

The most recent tour to South Africa was in 2009, coached by Ian McGeechan and captained by Paul O’Connel from Ireland. The Bokke won the first 2 tests, which effectively wrapped up the series. In the dead rubber, the Lions saved some pride by winning convincingly. 

Let the greatest rugby tour of all commence…. 

The 2021 edition will see 5 warm up games act as the curtain-raiser for the 3 tests. Key South African cities will all play host to a game of some sorts and hence exposing a diverse set of fans to the experience of a Lions tour (many for the first time). 

The Lions will start their campaign on July the 3rd against the Stormers in Cape Town. The tour will culminate with the final test against the Springboks in Johannesburg on August the 7th. 

Potential South Africa Squad 

While team selection is still a bit of a way off, there are some certainties on both sides. Starting with South Africa, the 2019 World Player of the year Pieter Steph Du Toit will be the bedrock of the team. Undisputedly the best player in 2019, the pressure will be on Du Toit to replicate that form in 2021. The inspirational Siya Kolisi will surely remain captain. Together with stalwarts Duane Vermeulen, Hanre Pollard and Willie Le Roux the backbone of the team should be settled. Should the prodigious Francois Steyn be selected, he would be the only survivor of the victorious Springbok squad of 2009. It would take a foolish man to bet against his inclusion. 

The majority of the starting 15 of the 2019 World Cup final will still be around and available for selection come 2021- this will be a good problem for new coach Jacques Nienaber, who will be hoping to replicate Rassie Erasmus’s success with the Boks. 

How could the Lions line up? 

The Lions camp will have a few more challenges, as the team is formed by combining the cream of the crop from the home nations. Coach Warren Gatland is a seasoned campaigner, who was head coach of the previous 2 successful tours. He will therefore have an impartial view, looking to select only the best for the tour (irrespective of national allegiances). 

Going on current form alone the squad will most likely be dominated by the English and Welsh with the 3 front runners for captain coming from these nations too.  

As it stands the captaincy will go to either Maro Itoje or Owen Farrell of England, or to the most capped Lions player currently still in the mix, Alun-Wyn Jones of Wales. Whoever is selected will need to be a given starter. This fact alone may count against Jones who will be 35 years of age come the Lions tour. It is believed that Farrell may be more valuable an asset without the added pressure of the captaincy. This leaves Maro Itoje as the current favourite to take the mantle. A workhorse of note who leads from the front, Itoje would fit the mould of a Martin Johnson, should the leadership responsibilities be bestowed upon him. 

In the mix for the Lions tour, players like CJ Stander of Ireland, Manu Tuilagi of England and Gareth Davies of Wales are leading the charge in their respective positions. Warren Gatland will be wanting to face up to the physicality of the Springboks, and so his match day 22 will most likely feature a lot of grunt. 

Let’s get ready for a spectacular Lions Tour! 

A Lions tour always brings a level of excitement that cannot be matched. The expectation and pressure on the best players from the home nations is immense. Therefore, a win in South Africa in 2021 will go a long way for Northern Hemisphere rugby. 

Conversely, the resurrection of South African rugby over the past 2 years has been nothing short of a miracle. The Springboks will be itching to cement their place as undisputed kings of world rugby in 2021. Just being involved in a Lions tour is a career highlight for many players. So, you can bet all involved will leave everything out on the field for those 80 minutes. 

In conclusion, the 2021 tour is perfectly poised to establish who is the truly dominant force in world rugby. The question is who will it be? 

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Betway and SA cricket

Betway and SA cricket

In the first half of 2020, Standard Bank called to a halt its long-term sponsorship of South African cricket. During a time when sponsorship opportunities are difficult to come by, Cricket South Africa (CSA) would have been anxious to fill the void left by Standard Bank. International online betting company Betway has stepped in as the main event sponsor for the men’s Test and one day international (ODI) teams. Betway will also act as the official sponsor for the men’s T20 side, and the women’s team. While this is a step in the right direction, the remainder of the gap left by Standard Bank needs to be filled. But lets look into Betway and its recent involvement in SA cricket.

Who is Betway?

Betway is a global gambling company that operates across regulated online marketplaces. Founded in 2006, Betway has a presence in many markets. These include the UK, European countries such as Germany and Italy, as well as South Africa. The Betway group is based in Guernsey and Malta, with support from the Isle of Man, Cape Town and London. Betway has a history of sponsoring sporting events. In football, West Ham United and Betway have been in a partnership since 2015. Both parties recently renewed the partnership deal, which is the largest in the club’s history. For a brief period Betway sponsored the two premier international competitions on the tennis circuit, The Davis Cup and the Fed Cup. The company has been involved in horse racing, snooker and even esports. Betway first stepped into cricket by sponsoring the West Indies cricket team in 2018.. The recent SA cricket deal adds another top team to their portfolio.

The state of South African Cricket

The poor governance at the highest levels of CSA is the main reason Standard Bank chose not to renew its sponsorship deal. Misconduct, financial inconsistencies and poor player and media relations, all contributed to Standard Bank’s decision. The bank’s partnership with South African cricket went back as far as 18 years. Finding a long-term replacement will thus take time. The Betway deal does help, however the South African men’s team, the Proteas are still needing to find a replacement. Due to the current Covid-19 pandemic, sponsorship deals globally have been hard to come by. One would think that only once regular sport resumes (cricket in particular), companies will only then review sponsorship opportunities.

What does the Betway sponsorship deal entail?

Following the sponsorship of the South African domestic T20 league, the Mzansi Super League in 2018, Betway has increased its footprint in SA cricket. The Betway deal with CSA is due to run for 3 years. By becoming the headline event sponsor, all Test and ODI series will be covered by Betway. This replaces previous event sponsors Sunfoil (Tests) and Momentum (ODI). The deal will also cover both the T20 men’s team, as well as the women’s team, by becoming the official full sponsor of both teams. The Proteas will however be anxious to find a replacement sponsor as soon as possible. The gap left by Standard Bank is reportedly worth 100 Million Rand a year. If the current Betway deal is successful, the betting company could perhaps step in in future. However, as it stands there is still work to be done by the powers that be at CSA.

The future

While the Covid-19 pandemic has not leant itself to sponsorship opportunities, the conduct of Cricket South Africa leaves a lot to be desired. Big brands will be wary of associating themselves with parties in strife. CSA must get their house in order before they can consider themselves a legitimate brand to align with. The best thing that can happen, is for sport to resume. If the Proteas can put together some strong performances, and if the management of CSA can get themselves on the right track there is no reason that one of the most successful international cricketing teams cannot align with a suitable sponsor to fill the vacuum left by Standard Bank.

No matter which way one looks at it, the Betway deal is a good thing for South African cricket. It is most definitely a step in the right direction for a national body finding itself at one of its lowest points (albeit at a management level). If the alignment with Betway proves a success, larger, more encompassing deals could be realised in future. Either way, one can only hope that the Proteas have many options in the sponsorship world once they have their affairs in order.

For more information about the Betway’s sports betting offer please read our detailed Betway review.