Australia v Scotland: Rugby League World Cup tips and predictions

Free rugby league tips, best bets and analysis for Australia v Scotland in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.

Where to watch

BBC Two, 7.30pm Friday

Best bet

Angus Crichton first tryscorer
1pt each-way 11-1 Betfair, Paddy Power

Match preview

Australia began the defence of their World Cup title with a routine victory over Fiji at Headingley, but the 42-8 scoreline wasn't quite as convincing as it suggests.

The Kangaroos were slightly disjointed in attack in the first half and led only 18-4 at the interval before their combinations began to develop after the break and they eased away from the Bati.

Mal Meninga has made a number of changes for the Aussies' second hit out against Scotland on Friday, with six players set to make their international bow.

One player who does retain his place for the 1-100 Kangaroos is Sydney Roosters second-row Angus Crichton, who was on the scoresheet against Fiji.

Second-rowers often go overlooked in the first tryscorer market compared to centres, despite the fact that both offer a significant threat on the edges.

Crichton's average of around one try every four games in the NRL this season is comparable to that of Australia's starting centres against the Scots, Jack Wighton and Matt Burton, so he looks an interesting each-way proposition - a quarter the odds for scoring one of the first three tries - at 11-1.

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