With the football seasons now over and all eyes on the World Cup, our attention turns to other codes for a few weeks and what better place to start than rugby league’s State of Origin.
League might not be the biggest sport in Asia but Origin is without doubt one of the most iconic contests of all global sporting events with NSW looking to end Queensland’s eight year dominance of the series when they meet again in Game I next week. The Blues have made some big chances due to injury and player misbehaviour, which means Queensland head into the series opener as hot favorites… but don’t underestimate NSW – they could prove to be a good value bet at the line.
The Formula 1 season heads to Monaco for the premier event of the year with Lewis Hamilton again the man to beat. Hamilton has now won four races in a row with Nico Rosberg the ever-consistent wing man and it seems only mechanical problems can prevent Mercedes continuing on their merry way.
The PGA Tour continues in Texas with the Crowne Plaza Invitational. More than just another tournament, this week sees a new world number one in Adam Scott playing his first tournament since stealing top spot from Tiger Woods although holding onto his newfound status won’t be easy with Henrik Stenson, Matt Kuchar and Bubba Watson hot on his heels.
And the NBA playoffs continue with Indiana and Miami locked in a tense battle in the East. Indiana won the series opener before the Heat levelled the ledger on Tuesday. San Antonio also got the early jump on Oklahoma City as they look to make amends for last year’s early exit.
Good luck and good punting.
