ITV Announces Six Nations Coverage

21 Jan 2016 | tshego

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ITV has unveiled its plans for coverage of the 2016 RBS 6 Nations, with Mark Pougatch leading the broadcast team.

The 2016 Championship marks the start of a six year deal between ITV and the BBC that will see matches shared between both broadcasters on television and online.

In addition to ITV’s coverage on the main channel, there will be online coverage via the ITV Hub and ITV’s 6 Nations website.

As part of the deal, BBC will have live coverage of eight games – including the Calcutta Cup between Scotland and England on 6th February, and France against England on 19th March – while ITV will show seven games – including England’s games against Ireland and Wales, both from Twickenham, as well as Ireland’s match against Wales in Dublin.

Leading the broadcaster’s team is presenter Mark Pougatch, and he will be joined by Jonny Wilkinson, Lawrence Dallaglio and Jason Robinson – all members of England’s winning Rugby World Cup 2003 team, along with their coach Sir Clive Woodward.

Former Ireland captain Brian O’Driscoll, ex-Wales captain Gareth Thomas, former Scotland coach Sir Ian McGeechan and England Women World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi MBE will also be involved, along with former England international Ugo Monye, and Marco Bortolami, who has 111 caps for Italy.

Niall Sloane, ITV director of sport, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing rugby fans first-class live action from key games in what is set to be one of the most thrilling 6 Nations tournaments ever. This is the first time ITV will be broadcasting this superb tournament and we’re delighted to be able to provide free to air coverage to viewers in partnership with the BBC.

“After a successful Rugby World Cup we’ve once again assembled a stellar line-up of rugby talent, many of whom can provide fresh and current insights into the mindsets and tactics of coaches and players, helping deliver the best possible coverage for those watching at home.”