BBC's Stunning Snub of England's Six Nations Clash with Italy
Yesterday at 02:11 PM
England's Six Nations showdown with Italy has been pushed off live BBC radio, despite the broadcaster previously promising full coverage of every match across its sports stations.
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Instead, BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra will air the Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand, while Chelsea's Premier League clash with Leicester takes centre stage on 5 Live.
As a result, rugby fans will have to settle for commentary via the BBC Sport website or app—a major blow for those unable to tune in via TV or the internet.
England's World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward didn't hold back in his criticism of the decision, calling it a "punch in the gut" for the sport.
"It's a sad day for me," Woodward told Mail Online. "This is a reflection of where rugby is at right now. The Six Nations is normally sacrosanct.
"The big debate at the moment is whether the Championship stays on terrestrial TV or moves to a subscription service. But I thought radio was a given on the BBC. It's a big loss.
"I could understand if England were in the Champions Trophy final, but they're not. So, it seems odd to me. It's these sorts of decisions that are the thin end of the wedge."
The Six Nations' current TV deal—with live coverage split between ITV and the BBC—is in its final year, with the bidding process set to kick off after this tournament. The BBC currently holds rights to Wales and Scotland's home games, while ITV airs fixtures in England, Ireland, France, and Italy.
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Bookies Predict the Lions XV to Face Australia – Two England Players Start
Bookmakers have released their predictions for the British & Irish Lions’ starting XV to face Australia in the 2025 tour, highlighting a squad dominated by Irish talent and featuring only one English starter.
The anticipated lineup, along with the latest odds for each position, is as follows:
Forwards
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2
A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland's pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10
One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland's recent successes.
3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13
Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.
4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5
The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he'll be vital for the tour.
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2
A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster's second row. He's quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.
6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.
7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9
England's standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl's dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions' back row.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4
One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.
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