Jim McGuinness helps Sky launch their 2016 GAA coverage

Fri, 20 May, 2016 - 16:21

Sky Sports get their 2016 GAA coverage underway on the first weekend in June - announcing the fixtures today with a host of familiar faces in the commentary team.

SFC champions Dublin beginning their title defence against Laois in Nowlan Park on Saturday June 4. It will be ten years to the day since Dublin last played a championship game outside of Croke Park and GAA fans will be keen to see how the Dubs can perform outside the familiar surroundings of Dublin 3.

Next up Kilkenny take on either Dublin or Wexford on Saturday June 11 as the Cats attempt to win back-to-back All-Ireland SHC titles. Kilkenny are looking to add to their record 36 All-Ireland SHC titles as they continue their dominance of the championship this century and they won’t give the Liam McCarthy Cup up easily.

Live coverage continues each weekend of the season culminating in the hurling and football championship finals in September.

Sky have put together an experienced GAA commentary team, including including former Donegal manager Jim McGuinness, Tyrone legend Peter Canavan, Kilkenny’s nine time All-Ireland SHC champion JJ Delaney and Clare’s All-Ireland two-time SHC star Jamesie O’Connor.

Pictured at the launch of Sky Sports 2016 GAA season (L-R) JJ Delaney, Peter Canavan, Senan O'Connell, Jim McGuinness, Paul Earley, Brian Carney and Ollie Canning. Photo: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

“I’ve had the great honour of being involved in inter-county football both as a player and a manager over a long number of years and I am looking forward to continue sharing some of my experiences and insights with Sky Sports viewers,” McGuinness said.

JJ Delaney added: “The Championship has been a huge part of my life for the last 15 years. After retiring from the Kilkenny team, Sky Sports has given me the opportunity to offer a fresh perspective on the players.

“I’m excited to continue analysing the games in what promises to be a very competitive Championship.”

Sky Sports full GAA 2016 fixture list:

Sat 4th June

Laois v Dublin Leinster SFC quarter-final 7pm throw-in

Sat 11th June

Dublin/Wexford v Kilkenny Leinster SHC semi-final 7pm throw-in

Sat 18th June

London/Mayo v Galway Connacht SFC semi-final 7pm throw-in

Sat 25th June

Monaghan/Down v Fermanagh/Donegal Ulster SFC semi-final 7pm throw-in

Sat 2nd July Either All-Ireland SFC Qualifiers Round 2A or All-Ireland SHC Qualifier Round 1

Sat 9th July Either All-Ireland SFC Qualifiers Round 2B or All-Ireland SFC Qualifiers Round 3A