28 April, 2016 17:15
CLANCY OVERELL | Editor | CONTACT
With the 2016 National Rugby League season in full swing, Fox Sports have announced that presenter and former Australian 100m national sprint title holder, Matt Shirvinton, has been replaced by former Australian long-jumper Jumpin’ Jai Taurima, as a co-host of the NRL Super Saturday program.
It is believed that Shirvington, who competed in the 100m, 200m and 4 x 100m relay events at both the 2000 Olympic Games, the Athletics World Championships and the Commonwealth Games, has been ‘let go’ to make room for a more ‘esteemed’ former Australian athlete.
Fox Sports CEO, Patrick Delany, spoke to the Advocate today about what many die-hard viewers have described as a brash decision.
“We thought, if we are going to pay briefly famous Australian Olympians to provide analysis and commentary on a sport that they have had very little involvement in, we might as well get a bit of a character,”
“I mean Shirvo was an icon, but it mainly came down to the size of his wang,”
“Jumpin’ Jai was exactly what our nation needed in 2001 – a Tim Tam mungin’, speed dealer rockin’, Maori-Australian superstar… and fuck he could jump,”
“He won an Olympic silver medal… Which makes him worth more money in the eyes of Kelloggs, and in the eyes of Murdoch,”
Speaking to media from his home on The Gold Coast today, Jumpin’ Jai says he feels sorry for ‘Shirvo’ but understands that the FOX SPORTS contract is one that requires someone with a ‘bit of silverware’.
“I’m the one that was breaking records [PB: 8.49 metres, 2001 Sydney Olympics]. Shirvo had a good piece on him, but its all about that white gold, baby (silver medal)”.
“Plus I grew up playing league. And I’ve got good banter,”
“I’ve known Gaz and Anasta for years. I’ve got some good shit on them. This is gonna be a scream… FIRE UP!”
Both Matt Shirvington was sought for comment, but was last seen leaving North Sydney’s Fox Sports Studios with his belongings (including a 4×100 National Athletics Bronze Medal) in a cardboard box.
Jumpin’ Jai will debut on the screens this Saturday alongside Mark Gasnier, Braith Anasta and Lara Pitt.
FOX Sports have also announced a rebrand to the Super Saturday show, which includes a new theme song, Jumpman by Future ft. Drake.
I think ‘Braiths’ head is photo-shopped. In fact, all their heads look weird.