**Dan Biggar and Ronan O’Gara Tease New Joint Venture in Rugby Broadcasting Following Lions Tour Triumph**
In the wake of a memorable British & Irish Lions tour in Australia, much of the focus has been on the exploits of Andy Farrell’s squad. However, off the pitch, another captivating saga has been unfolding in the commentary box. Rugby icons Dan Biggar and Ronan O’Gara, formerly fierce rivals on the field, have discovered an unexpectedly dynamic partnership as pundits. Their collaboration for Sky Sports’ coverage has brought a refreshing energy to rugby broadcasting, prompting the pair to reveal ambitions for a new venture together.
The footballing landscape has rarely seen such a compelling double act, with Biggar, fresh from hanging up his boots, and O’Gara, currently head coach at La Rochelle, offering contrasting but complementary perspectives. Biggar, speaking after a string of widely discussed on-air exchanges, admitted that their rapport has “struck something up quite nicely over the last four or five weeks.” Their mix of friendly banter and deep tactical analysis has quickly turned them into fan favourites.
Viewers have been especially entertained by their spirited debates, such as a lively disagreement earlier in the tour regarding the inclusion of Owen Farrell in the Lions squad. As Biggar argued against his selection, O’Gara stood firm in support, providing television that was as insightful as it was entertaining. This rapport has even drawn comparisons to “an old married couple,” as former England player Andy Goode jested during their commentary on the match against the Brumbies.
With over 240 international caps between them, Biggar and O’Gara possess a significant well of experience to draw upon. O’Gara’s insights from the touchline and coaching box blend seamlessly with Biggar’s recent playing experiences, giving viewers a broad perspective on the modern game. Their chemistry is all the more notable because their styles could easily have clashed rather than complemented one another.
While nothing is set in stone yet, both men have hinted at future collaboration beyond the Lions tour. The idea, it seems, is inspired by formats such as Monday Night Football – a programme renowned for its in-depth, tactical dissections. Biggar spoke candidly about their shared ambition to “really dig down into the fine tactical details of the modern game” and provide “something for the real rugby nerds.”
“We probably don’t get enough time in this capacity to expand on a point,” Biggar told The i in a recent interview. “We’d love to be able to do something for the real rugby nerds. Why is he kicking here? Or, if they play this way, what does it mean for the defence, for the attack, etc?” The emphasis appears to be on long-form, analytical programming that goes beyond the basics and appeals to the game’s most discerning followers.
O’Gara echoed these sentiments, highlighting the professionalism Biggar has already brought to the broadcast role: “Even at this stage of his burgeoning commentary career, he puts a big emphasis on preparation,” he commented. For O’Gara, already an accomplished coach, the broadcasting work is “bonus territory” but an invaluable opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues, expand his rugby knowledge, and share this passion with an engaged audience.
What both men agree on is the appeal of differing points of view. As Biggar notes, many other panels consist solely of players, leading to a singular kind of insight. The blend of player and coach, he argues, creates a richer, more varied conversation around the game. This dynamic has left rugby fans eager for more.
Supporters of the Lions and the sport at large will be watching closely to see what form this partnership takes next. As the 2025 tour draws to a close in Sydney, talk about Farrell’s squad is sharing space with curiosity about when and where Biggar and O’Gara might reappear, ready to spar and teach in equal measure.
In a sport that thrives on tradition and rivalry, the success of this unlikely duo is proof that rugby still has room for surprises – both on and off the field. For now, the rugby world waits with interest to discover what Biggar and O’Gara’s next play will be.