The Rugby League Ashes is set to make a comeback on the BBC after a hiatus of over two decades. The historic series, which originated in 1908 between Great Britain and Australia, concluded abruptly in 2003. However, the event is now being revived with a twist – England will replace Great Britain as the challengers against the Australian team.
England, led by head coach Shaun Wane, will take over from their predecessors, who narrowly trailed Australia in their head-to-head records. The series will feature matches at three different venues across England, starting at Wembley Stadium on October 25, followed by games at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on November 1 and potentially concluding at AMT Headingley Stadium in Leeds on November 8.
The matches will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with Mark Chapman heading the coverage alongside a panel of pundits including Sam Burgess, Kev Brown, Jon Wilkin, Jamie Peacock, Jodie Cunningham, and Robbie Hunter-Paul. Welsh icon Jonathan ‘Jiffy’ Davies will provide co-commentary, with Matt Newsum as the lead commentator, supported by James Graham, John Kear, and Brian Noble, while Tanya Arnold and Damian Johnson will report from the sidelines.
Director of BBC Sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, emphasized the significance of bringing back the Rugby League Ashes to reconnect fans with the sport’s iconic rivalry. Rhodri Jones, Managing Director of RL Commercial, expressed delight in showcasing all three tests live on BBC One, marking a pivotal moment for the sport in the country.
The return of the Rugby League Ashes after 22 years signifies a landmark event for Rugby League enthusiasts and strengthens the long-standing relationship between BBC Sport and international Rugby League. The upcoming clashes between England and the 2025 Kangaroos promise to deliver more memorable sporting moments for audiences in London, Liverpool, and Leeds this autumn.