ITV to broadcast first World Wheelchair Rugby Challenge

The countdown to the inaugural BT World Wheelchair Rugby Challenge (BT WWRC) kicked off Friday (3 July) with the announcement of live broadcasting by ITV. The announcement coincided with the 100 days to go milestone to the opening match.

The BT WWRC15 (12 – 16 October) brings together the World’s best “Murderball” teams. London 2012 Paralympic gold medallists Australia return to the former Olympic Park, alongside silver medallists Canada and bronze medallists USA. Hosts Great Britain look to capitalise on home support, while New Zealand, South Africa, Japan and France also have their eyes on the top prize.

The international tournament is to be held at the iconic 6,000-seated Copper Box Arena, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and forms part of the Rugby World Cup Festival.

As part of the arrangement, ITV4 will show live evening matches. ITV4’s comprehensive coverage will include five hours of live broadcasting each day, presented by a team with a wealth of sporting and broadcasting talent and experience including presenter Martin Bayfield, the former England and British Lions player. Bayfield will be joined by Steve Brown, captain of the British London 2012 Paralympic wheelchair rugby team, former England and British Lions player, Ugo Monye, reporter Rachael Latham, with commentary team Simon Ward and Mike Spence.

“The tournament will feature the world's best wheelchair rugby teams and run alongside the Rugby World Cup,” Chief Executive of Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby David Pond said. “ITV's commitment to viewer experience and its ability to reach out and inspire new audiences will be great for the game and will build on the huge public interest following the success of the London 2012 Paralympics.”

ITV’s Director of Sport, Niall Sloane, said: “We are excited to be the broadcaster of this important new tournament which presents a fantastic opportunity to engage the public in a tremendous sport at the top level and entertain with first class live action. As the (Great British) broadcaster of the Rugby World Cup, ITV is delighted to be able to offer viewers the perfect complement to that event and showcase the appeal of this fantastic form of rugby.”