Bruce McAvaney Makes Comeback to Channel 7 for AFL Finals and Grand Final Coverage
Bruce McAvaney, a renowned voice in Australian sports broadcasting, is making a surprising comeback to Channel 7 for the AFL season's final three matches, including the preliminary finals and the grand final. After retiring in 2020, he expressed excitement about returning to the commentary team, calling it a "privilege." The grand final week also marks the first live and free streaming of coverage on 7plus.
Bruce McAvaney, a renowned figure in Australian sports commentary, is making a surprising return to television for the last three matches of the AFL season. The esteemed broadcaster will host key games for Channel 7, beginning with two preliminary finals and culminating in the grand final on September 28.
McAvaney Returns to AFL Commentary
Bruce McAvaney, a prominent voice in Australian football, is set to return to the screens after retiring from full-time commentating in 2020. His comeback will start with Sydney's matchup against Port Adelaide this Friday night. Following this, he will be part of the coverage for the preliminary final between Geelong and Brisbane at the MCG, leading up to the grand final the following week.
Reflections on Retirement and Return
McAvaney expressed that it is a "privilege" to be involved with the AFL team again. He recalls his last broadcast in 2020 as a noteworthy experience marked by the challenges of COVID-19, including remote commentary situations. He stated that he did not anticipate that his last game would serve as a farewell, emphasizing the unusual circumstances of that season.
Excitement Ahead for AFL Finals
As he looks forward to the upcoming games, McAvaney highlighted the thrill surrounding this year's finals, noting an abundance of unpredictable outcomes and excitement throughout the season. The AFL Grand Final is viewed as a pinnacle event in Australian sports, and McAvaney expressed eagerness to kick off the finals at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Recognition from Seven West Media
Jeff Howard, CEO of Seven West Media, praised McAvaney as a "living legend" and lauded his contributions to sports broadcasting in Australia. The network is excited about his involvement in their coverage, which also features a team of leading commentators for the finals.
A New Era for AFL Coverage
This year's Grand Final week, starting with the Brownlow Medal ceremony on September 23, signals a new era for Seven's AFL coverage, which will now be available for the first time via live and free streaming on 7plus. This marks a significant shift in how fans engage with the sport.
