TNT Sports Lose British & Irish Lions Tour TV Rights to main Broadcast Rival

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12/03/2024 04:41 AM

In a major coup for rugby fans, The British & Irish Lions have secured a massive broadcasting deal with Sky Sports for their much-anticipated 2025 Tour of Australia.

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Sky Sports Wins the Battle Despite stiff competition from TNT Sport, who will exclusively air the Autumn Internationals next month, Sky Sports emerged victorious in the race for broadcasting rights. Rugby lovers across the UK and Ireland can now look forward to watching all the live action on Sky Sports and NOW as the Lions prepare to lock horns with the Wallabies.

Lions Look to Roar Again The Lions have history on their side after clinching a dramatic 2-1 Series win in Australia back in 2013. This Tour, however, comes on the heels of a difficult, Covid-impacted campaign in South Africa in 2021. Now, they are eager to bounce back and chase back-to-back Series wins Down Under.

First Stop: Suncorp Stadium – The Cauldron The adventure kicks off at Brisbane's iconic Suncorp Stadium—known as ‘The Cauldron’—a venue famous for its fierce atmosphere. The Lions will be out to make a statement, and with the Wallabies standing in their way, fans can expect fireworks from the first whistle.

Ben Calveley Hypes the Tour Ben Calveley, CEO of The British & Irish Lions, couldn't be more thrilled about the partnership. He said: “Sky Sports have been an outstanding broadcast partner to The British & Irish Lions for many years. The quality of production, presenters, expert panellists, and overall analysis they deliver really enriches the Series and makes for a compelling offering for fans watching at home.”

With the 2025 Tour preparations heating up, excitement is building fast, and Sky Sports will be at the heart of it all.

Sky Sports pick their Lions XV

Sky Sports have unveiled their squad for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia, with some shocking omissions and intriguing selections.

The broadcasters, who will exclusively air the tour, kept faith in form players from the Home Nations but notably left out England stars playing overseas. Owen Farrell and Jack Willis were among those tipped for inclusion but missed out.

A Tour to Remember

The 2025 Lions tour promises thrilling rugby, with all three Tests against the Wallabies and six warm-up matches available live only on Sky Sports. The squad includes a mix of seasoned internationals and exciting new faces, setting the stage for a fierce battle Down Under.

Ireland Dominates

Emerald Isle All-Stars

Ireland's presence in the squad is commanding, boasting 19 players across the forwards and backs. With a mix of experienced campaigners like Tadhg Furlong and James Ryan alongside young stars such as Joe McCarthy and Sam Prendergast, the Irish contingent is set to shine.

England's Rising Stars

From Genge to Freeman

Despite no overseas-based players being selected, England's representatives feature familiar names like Ellis Genge and Maro Itoje, as well as younger talents such as Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Chandler Cunningham-South.

Welsh Warriors

Morgan Leads the Charge

Wales contributed a smaller, select group to the squad. Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams headline their involvement, representing the nation with grit and flair.

Scottish Strength

Russell's Return

Scotland's dynamic backs and hard-working forwards make a strong case for their inclusion. Finn Russell's mercurial talent and the relentless work rate of Pierre Schoeman highlight a robust Scottish contingent.

Full Squad Breakdown

Country Representation

Ireland: 19 players
England: 18 players
Wales: 5 players
Scotland: 11 players

Ireland

Forwards: Andrew Porter, Tadhg Furlong, Dan Sheehan, Ronan Kelleher, Tadhg Beirne, Joe McCarthy, James Ryan, Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris, Jack Conan.
Backs: Jamison Gibson-Park, Jack Crowley, Sam Prendergast, Bundee Aki, Garry Ringrose, Mack Hansen, Robbie Henshaw, James Lowe, Hugo Keenan.

England

Forwards: Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Will Stuart, Maro Itoje, Ollie Chessum, George Martin, Chandler Cunningham-South, Ben Earl, Sam Underhill, Jack Willis, Tom Curry.
Backs: Alex Mitchell, Marcus Smith, Ollie Lawrence, Henry Slade, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, George Furbank, Tommy Freeman.

Wales

Forwards: Dewi Lake, Jac Morgan, James Botham, Aaron Wainwright.
Backs: Tomos Williams.

Scotland

Forwards: Pierre Schoeman, Zander Fagerson, Rory Darge, Matt Fagerson.
Backs: Ben White, Finn Russell, Sione Tuipulotu, Huw Jones, Darcy Graham, Duhan van der Merwe, Blair Kinghorn.

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