RAY Warren reckons he won’t be around to see out Channel 9’s new television deal — so who would replace Rabbits as the network’s next face of footy?
Warren first called top-flight rugby league in 1974 when he did the midweek games in the old AMCO Cup and has been the main caller for Channel Nine since they first obtained the TV rights in 1992.
Warren has long been regarded as one of the best commentators in Australian rugby league history along with the late Frank Hyde.
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However, as reported by The Daily Telegraph’s Phil Rothfield, the 72-year old Warren has indicated that he is likely to hang up the microphone at the end of the current TV deal which expires at the conclusion of the 2017 season.
Ray Hadley is the network’s current Number Two but his radio duties with 2GB means he’s unlikely to commit to the top job while Number Three Mat Thompson lacks experience.
Fan favourite Andrew Voss left Nine in acrimonious circumstances several years ago, which might see his card marked despite his growing reputation as one of the best commentators in the game.
Voss left Nine several seasons ago. Source: News Limited
That could open the door for Warren Smith, the long-time leader of the Fox Sports commentary team, to make the jump to free-to-air.
Dan Ginnane has impressed as the main caller for Triple M since they obtained the free-to-air radio rights for the game several years ago.
Veteran ABC caller Andrew Moore is also in with a shout after switching from 2GB earlier this year.
Backup Nine commentator Tim Gilbert and Fox Sports’ Matt Russell are the other main candidates.
THE CONTENDERS:
Ray Hadley: The most experienced choice and Nine’s current Number Two caller. His radio duties might preclude him from getting the top job though.
Andrew Voss: A fan favourite who has gone from strength to strength since leaving Nine several years ago. Currently calling two games a week for Fox Sports.
Warren Smith: The long-time lead caller for Fox Sports, Smith appears the favourite at this stage.
Dan Ginnane: Main caller at Triple M and host of drive-time program The Rush Hour.
Andrew Moore: A long-time favourite, Moore calls matches for ABC after spending many years at 2GB.
Mat Thompson: Channel Nine’s current No. 3
Matt Russell: Calls two games a week for Fox Sports
Tim Gilbert: Does a game here and there for Nine.
Joel Caine: Calls the occasional game and works the sideline for Fox Sports.
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