Australian cricket icon Glenn McGrath will not feature in the commentary box for the upcoming Ashes series after the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) enforced its strict policy against affiliations with wagering companies.
The 55-year-old was dropped from the ABC’s panel on Wednesday, just two days before the first Test in Perth, following the revelation of his commercial endorsement deal with Bet365, a move the national broadcaster deemed a conflict of interest.
Strict Policy Enforced
The ABC maintains rigid guidelines that prohibit its on-air talent—in both news and sports—from holding affiliations with betting companies. McGrath’s partnership for a brand campaign, which reportedly also features former captain Ricky Ponting, was deemed incompatible with the ABC’s stance on gambling endorsements.
The ABC confirmed the decision in a statement, emphasizing the mutual nature of the separation for the duration of the Ashes series.
ABC Spokesperson: “We’ve mutually decided Glenn won’t be part of our coverage this summer. We hope to see him around the grounds and remain open to working with him again. Our commentary group, headed by Jim Maxwell and Corbin Middlemas, is set for the opening Test in Perth.”
Sources indicated that McGrath’s management had proactively informed the ABC about the upcoming Bet365 deal roughly a month ago, acknowledging that it might impact his role.
Tom Moody Steps In
McGrath, who was set to be a key expert voice for the five-match series, has been replaced by former Australian all-rounder and experienced commentator, Tom Moody, for the first Test. The ABC’s coverage will still feature prominent names like Darren Lehmann, Jason Gillespie, and Stuart Clark.
This incident echoes a similar situation in 2022 when fellow former fast bowler Mitchell Johnson was removed from the ABC commentary team over his own commercial deal with a different betting agency. Johnson publicly criticized the policy at the time, questioning the broadcaster’s “moral compass.”
Despite the setback with the ABC, McGrath is expected to continue his commentary duties for the BBC’s radio coverage of the Ashes.