👀 Drama in the commentary box! During a thrilling Super Rugby Pacific clash between Western Force and the Chiefs in Perth, rugby commentator Sean Maloney faced an unexpected challenge. His voice gave out live on air, forcing him to hand over duties 20 minutes into the match! 😲
Maloney, known for his energetic commentary, realised he couldn’t go on due to losing his voice. It seems a chilly drive back from Canberra the night before took its toll. Before stepping down, he assured viewers, “I’m cooked, Swainy. That little trip back from Canberra last night, it’s got me.” Thankfully, colleague Andrew Swain was ready to save the day and seamlessly took over the mic. 🎤
Swain, who shared a ride with Maloney from Canberra, joked about the situation, “No worries, Seany. Mate, go get a Strepsil. It was cold in Canberra last night,” adding that now he could just focus on calling the game without the extra pressure of producing it, too.
In his column, Maloney reflected on the incident saying, “After 15 years of calling rugby, it finally happened… My voice went on air.” He praised Swain for stepping up while sharing a laugh over their Canberra trip.
This swap spared ex-Wallaby Cam Shepherd from unexpected on-air duties—much to his relief. 🙌 And for those eager to catch more from Swain, he’ll be back behind the mic for the upcoming Queensland Reds vs Western Force game this weekend in Brisbane.
Catch all the excitement, minus the voice drama, every weekend as rugby keeps rolling on! 🏉💪