Boylesports tell us all anti-post records have been smashed in the run-up to the Rugby World Cup, which gets underway tonight in Paris when France host Argentina. Ladbrokes are expecting over €25 million to be wagered throughout the tournament, while one punter left a Paddy Power shop €50,000 lighter, for now at least, after backing New Zealand to win the competition at 4 to 7. In short, World Cup fever has well and truly arrived.

Not to be unpatriotic, but there are decent odds on Ireland failing to make it out of the "group of death" while Boylesports make Ireland 6 to 1 to make the last four.

Another interesting one from that firm is New Zealand at 80 to 1, recently reduced from 100 to 1, to cover every handicap en route to reclaiming the William Webb Ellis trophy for the first time since 1987.

Ladbrokes admitted they would suffer if the All Blacks or Ireland win outright, with one particular punter set to win €180,000 should Australia collect a third title. That's off a €15,000 bet at 12 to 1. The Wallabies are now down to 9 to 2.

Paddy Power expect over €4 million be be invested on Ireland alone by kick-off today; they have also projected a €20-million turnover for the tournament.

SELECTED ODDS

Ireland to win World Cup: Boylesports - 22/1 Ladbrokes - 20/1 Paddy Power - 20/1

Ireland to fail to qualify from group: Boylesports - 5/2 Ladbrokes - 2/1 Paddy Power - 5/2

Ireland to make semi-finals: Boylesports - 6/1 Ladbrokes - 3/1 Paddy Power - 5/1

- Gavin Cummiskey