AFL Rising Star odds: Rowell favourite, but Ugle-Hagan lurks

GOLD Coast sensation Matt Rowell is the hot favourite to win the AFL Rising Star Award in 2021, after he played just four games this year. 

AFL betting sites are beginning to release extensive odds for next year, following the draft on Wednesday night, which saw Western Bulldogs take Jamarra Ugle-Hagan with the no.1 pick. 

But it is Rowell, who was close to best on ground in each of his four AFL games before his shoulder injury, that has been backed off the map into $1.40 to win the Rising Star. 

GWS midfielder Tom Green, who played six games this year, and Ugle-Hagan, the young key forward likened to Lance Franklin, are on the next line of betting at $9. 

Adelaide’s Riley Thilthorpe, taken with pick no.2, is paying $11 to win the Rising Star which looks too narrow for a 202cm giant who will take time to find his feet at AFL level. 

North Melbourne midfielder and no.3 pick Will Phillips will almost certainly slot into the Roos engine room immediately and looks good value at $15. 

Sydney Swans Academy player Braeden Campbell is a little bit light but is likely to play senior football for a rebuilding club, but we think you will find better value than $15 closer to the season. 

Unibet Australia is offering extensive betting on the AFL Rising Star award with odds available now.