James Bracey to host NRL on Nine in 2017

Ch9 has confirmed former Sky News presenter James Bracey will become the new host of the networks NRL coverage in 2017.

Bracey will anchor the NRL coverage on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday nights, as well as host the Sunday Footy show.

The move comes after Fox Sports poached popular host Yvonne Sampson away from Nine. Fox Sports had intended for Sampson to become the face its new NRL channel Fox League when it launches early next year.

However, the move has turned into a legal stoush with Nine looking to impose a six month non-compete clause that was in Sampson’s contract. The matter is unlikely to be resolved before the new year.

Bracey has been the presenter of Sportsnight on Sky News for the past 4 years. His departure has led Sky News to axe the show and extend Paul Murray Live to a 2-hour format.

Announcing the appointment, Bracey told the Wide World of Sports website he was excited to be working with Phil Gould, Peter Sterling, Andrew Johns, Brad Fittler, Wally Lewis and Darren Lockyer.

“You look at the names on that list and it’s intimidating but it’s also exciting too,”

“To be able to sit on the same set as Joey, Freddy, Gus, Locky, Wally and Sterlo is pretty crazy for me.

“But that’s why it’s the number one gig. There is no better gig than this hosting the NRL coverage for Nine and Wide World of Sports.”

Nine’s Director of Sport Tom Malone added:

“I’m delighted James is joining the Wide World of Sports family and the home of rugby league to host our NRL coverage in 2017,’’

“Growing up on the Central Coast, he’s a mad rugby league fan and tragic North Sydney Bears supporter.

“He’s already crammed so much into his career covering Olympic and Commonwealth games and hosting his own nightly sports panel show.

“He will bring a great professionalism and enthusiasm to our broadcast and digital coverage.’’