Warburton set to be star of the screen as he signs up to join
SAM Warburton has been signed by Premier Sports as the broadcaster confirmed its team of pundits for its coverage of the Guinness PRO14.
The twice-Lions captain and former Wales skipper last month announced his injury-enforced retirement from playing.
Warburton, who led Wales on a record 49 occasions, will join Premier Sports as a guest for some of the PRO14’s biggest fixtures of the season, including the Welsh derbies and the season opener between Cardiff Blues and Leinster on August 31 at the Arms Park.
He will join fellow former Wales captains Martyn Williams and Eddie Butler, as well as legend Shane Williams, in the line-up of Welsh presenters, reporters and commentators.
“Having played in the Guinness PRO14 at its inception as a player, it’s been fantastic to see the Championship grow year-on-year and become a truly world class competition,” said former flanker Martyn Williams.
“It is a privilege to be part of Premier Sport inaugural season of coverage and I can’t wait for the it all to begin.”
Butler said: “The game moves forward and coverage of the game moves forward. It’s a real thrill to be involved in this new chapter with Premier Sports.
“The Guinness PRO14 is a true spearhead of the game in Europe and South Africa, never afraid to embrace new challenges, cross new boundaries and put on a show.”
Presenter Ross Harries, who used to front the BBC’s Scrum V show, will also join Premier Sports and said: “Over the past seven years, I’ve been privileged to stand pitch side and watch some of the finest players in the world do battle.
“During that time the Guinness PRO14 as evolved and grown, and it’s no surprise that the Championship now contains both the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup winners.
“Few things inspire as much passion as rugby in Wales, and I can’t wait to be a part of this exciting new chapter in the Championship’s history.”
Premier Sports chief executive Richard Sweeney, said: “We are broadcasting a Championship full of world-class players, with a team of talent that reflects the ambition and class of the Guinness PRO14.