The New Zealand Warriors, considered the dark horses of the National Rugby League (NRL) playoffs, are rated as the fifth favourites to win next month's grand final according to the latest odds issued by Australian betting agencies.
SportsTAB has last year's losing grand finalists at A$13 to go one better on October 5 while Centrebet have the Warriors slightly longer at A$14.
Reigning premiers the Sydney Roosters are picked to make the showdown at Telstra Stadium with the Bulldogs.
The Bulldogs, who host the Warriors in a qualifying final at the Sydney Showground on Saturday, are the premiership favourites with both bookmakers while 2001 champions Newcastle are considered rank outsiders due to the absence through injury of Kangaroos' skipper Andrew Johns.
Eighth-placed Brisbane, currently on a club record seven-match losing streak, are also at long odds given they need to beat minor premiers Penrith away on Sunday to survive.
Premiership odds:-
SportsTAB: Bulldogs $2.50, Roosters $3.75, Penrith $5.25, Canberra $12, New Zealand Warriors $13, Brisbane $14, Melbourne $15, Newcastle $26.
Centrebet: Bulldogs $2.60, Roosters $3.60, Penrith $5, Canberra $10, New Zealand Warriors $14, Melbourne $15, Brisbane $18, Newcastle $28.
- NZPA
Rugby League: Warriors fifth favourites to claim NRL crown
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