The upcoming Rugby League Ashes will make a long-awaited comeback to the BBC later this month after a hiatus of more than two decades. This renowned series, which commenced in 1908, pitted Great Britain against Australia in 39 matches before its abrupt end in 2003. Now, the event is being resurrected with a twist: England will replace Great Britain as the challengers to the Australian team.
England, under the guidance of head coach Shaun Wane, will carry on the legacy of the Great British side, who narrowly trailed Australia in their head-to-head history when the Ashes last concluded. The series will feature three matches at different venues in England, commencing at Wembley Stadium on October 25, followed by games at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on November 1 and potentially a decider at AMT Headingley Stadium in Leeds on November 8.
All three matches will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with Mark Chapman leading the coverage alongside a panel of pundits including Sam Burgess, Kev Brown, Jon Wilkin, Jamie Peacock, Jodie Cunningham, and Robbie Hunter-Paul. Commentary will be provided by Welsh dual-code icon Jonathan ‘Jiffy’ Davies and lead commentator Matt Newsum, supported by a team including James Graham, John Kear, and Brian Noble, with Tanya Arnold and Damian Johnson reporting from the pitch.
Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, emphasized the significance of reconnecting fans with this iconic rivalry through broadcasting the matches and delving into the sport’s stories and players. Rhodri Jones, Managing Director of RL Commercial, expressed delight in the return of the Rugby League Ashes after 22 years and highlighted the historical relationship between BBC Sport and Rugby League.
The much-anticipated clash between England and the Kangaroos promises to deliver classic sporting moments for audiences in London, Liverpool, and Leeds this autumn, continuing the rich legacy of international Rugby League showcased by the BBC.