BT lines up star cast for TV team as they launch new channel

Some of Britain’s most successful sports stars will front BT Sport’s new programmes.

BT lines up star cast for TV team as they launch new channel

Some of Britain’s most successful sports stars will front BT Sport’s new programmes.

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, former England stars Steve McManaman and David James as well as ex-England rugby internationals Matt Dawson, Ben Kay, Austin Healey and Martin Bayfield have signed deals with the network.

Sports broadcaster Jake Humphrey will anchor the network’s 38 exclusively live Barclays Premier League matches, with Ferdinand as an interviewer, expert and programme maker.

Opinion and analysis will come from double Champions League winner and former Liverpool midfielder McManaman, James and ex-Manchester United and Manchester City player Owen Hargreaves.

McManaman said the coverage will be incisive and BT will “push the boundaries”.

“But the main thing is to teach the average supporter something about the game they can’t necessarily see,” he said.

“First and foremost this is a huge opportunity.”

Michael Owen, who is about to retire from professional football, will take the role of co-commentator joining main commentators Ian Darke and Darren Fletcher.

Premier League referee Mark Halsey will also commentate across the broadcaster’s coverage, giving an insight into the official’s role and perspective.

BT Sport will broadcast the first Premier League game of next season, the 12.45pm kick-off on Saturday August 17.

BT Sport will show up to 69 live rugby union games from the Aviva Premiership.

Coverage will be presented by the broadcaster Craig Doyle and former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio, featuring both as co-commentator and studio analyst.

Dallaglio said he was thrilled to be part of a “unique and historic time” in sports broadcasting.

“It is very exciting. I am really pleased to be part of it.

“The opportunity to be part of the launch of a new sports platform doesn’t come very often in life.

“And to be back at club level working week in week out where I made my name is also very exciting.

“BT have done their homework.

“They have thought very clearly and been very open and honest, it is really refreshing.

“And for me, to get rugby on one channel is really important.”

Dallaglio added that he thought Sky’s reaction would be immediate but BT Sport’s arrival was great news for sports fans.

He said: “The essence of sport is competition and I am not sure there has been much competition in sports broadcasting.

“The winner is going to be the viewer so it’s a good thing.”

BT Sport will also be showing football from America’s MLS, Serie A in Italy, Ligue 1 in France and the Brasileiro in Brazil.

The company’s acquisition of ESPN’s TV channels in the UK and Ireland will bring the rights to show live games for the FA Cup, German Bundesliga, Scottish Premier League and the Europa League.

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