The Rugby League Ashes is set to make a comeback on the BBC after a hiatus of more than 20 years. Originating in 1908, the historic series between Great Britain and Australia abruptly ended in 2003, only to be revived now with a twist in the teams involved.
In a departure from the previous format where Great Britain faced Australia, the upcoming event will feature England challenging the Kangaroos. The Great Britain brand faded away in 2006, resurfacing briefly in 2019 without success.
Having not competed against Australia for eight years since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup final, England, under the guidance of head coach Shaun Wane, will now carry forward the legacy of their predecessors. The previous Ashes concluded with Australia narrowly leading the head-to-head record, winning 20 of the 39 series held since 1973.
The much-awaited series will unfold at three different venues across England, commencing at Wembley Stadium on October 25, followed by matches at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on November 1 and potentially culminating in a decisive clash 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 heading the coverage alongside a panel of pundits including Sam Burgess, Kev Brown, Jon Wilkin, Jamie Peacock, Jodie Cunningham, and Robbie Hunter-Paul. Welsh sports icon Jonathan ‘Jiffy’ Davies will provide co-commentary, accompanied by lead commentator Matt Newsum and analysts James Graham, John Kear, and Brian Noble, while Tanya Arnold and Damian Johnson will report from the sidelines.
Alex Kay-Jelski, BBC Sport Director, emphasized the significance of reconnecting fans with this iconic rivalry, expressing the intent to delve deeper into the stories and players involved. Rhodri Jones, RL Commercial Managing Director, hailed the return of the Rugby League Ashes after over two decades, highlighting BBC’s longstanding relationship with Rugby League and anticipation for classic moments in the upcoming series.