AFL legend Leigh Matthews will make his Fox Footy commentary debut during tonight’s Thursday night clash between Brisbane and Collingwood, live and ad-break free on Kayo Sports. The Hall of Famer joins a stellar line-up for what promises to be a blockbuster Round 6 match, bringing his renowned footy smarts to a contest between the last two premiers—both of which he once coached to flag success.
Officially recognised as the greatest player of the 20th century for his role in four Hawthorn premierships between 1971 and 1983, ‘Lethal Leigh’ will share his unmatched insights and expertise with viewers throughout the Thursday Night Footy epic. Matthews’ first match with Fox Footy is fitting—a top four clash between the AFL’s last two premiers, both of which he coached to a combined four premierships in 1990 (Collingwood), 2001, 2002 and 2003 (Brisbane) during his illustrious career.
On Thursday at the Gabba, Matthews will be joined in the commentary box by two of his former players: Pies legend Nathan Buckley and Lions great Alastair Lynch will be on the boundary. The dynamic trio promises to deliver an engaging broadcast filled with insights and nostalgia for fans of the game.
Mark Howard and Matt Hill will lead the call for this exciting encounter. The Thursday Night Footy broadcast on Fox Footy, available on Kayo Sports, will be anchored by a talented team including Sarah Jones, Jason Dunstall, David King, Leigh Montagna, and Jon Ralph. This comprehensive coverage ensures viewers won’t miss a moment of the action.
Matthews’ foray into commentary follows his Fox Footy debut with the On The Couch team on Monday, March 31. He will join that show once again next Monday, April 21, to review Round 6 and share his thoughts on the matches.
Steve Crawley, Managing Director of Fox Sports, expressed excitement about Matthews joining the commentary team. “Leigh was a key off-season recruit for Fox Footy and what better game for him to add his voice than Brisbane v Collingwood on Thursday Night Footy,” he said. “We’re excited to see this combination come to life in the commentary box, ‘Lethal’, Nathan Buckley, and Alastair Lynch. We’ll all get a front seat to watch how they navigate the player-coach relationship while calling the game. Does coach still know best? We can’t wait.”
Fox Footy, available on Kayo Sports, is the only place to watch every match of every round of the 2025 AFL season live and with no ad-breaks during play. Every match on Fox Footy includes dedicated commentary and graphics, making it the go-to destination for AFL fans.
As the players take the field at the Gabba, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting match. Both teams are eager to showcase their skills and make a statement in this crucial early-season clash. Fans will be tuning in not only to see how their teams perform but also to hear Matthews’ insightful commentary, adding another layer of excitement to the viewing experience.
In a league where every match counts, tonight's showdown between Brisbane and Collingwood is more than just a game; it's a celebration of the sport, its history, and the legends who have shaped it. With Matthews in the commentary box, viewers can expect a unique blend of analysis and storytelling that brings the game to life.
As the clock ticks down to the first bounce, the atmosphere at the Gabba is electric. Fans are eagerly awaiting the moment when the whistle blows and the action begins. With two of the league's most talented teams facing off, the stakes are high, and every play could be pivotal in the context of the season.
With Matthews’ extensive knowledge and experience in the game, his insights are sure to resonate with both die-hard supporters and casual viewers alike. His presence in the commentary box adds a layer of authenticity and excitement, making this match a must-watch event for all AFL fans.
As the players warm up on the field, the excitement continues to build. Both teams are ready to put their skills on display, and with Matthews providing commentary, fans are in for a treat. Will Brisbane continue their strong start to the season, or will Collingwood find a way to upset the reigning champions? Only time will tell as the match unfolds.
Tonight's game is not just about the rivalry between the two teams; it’s also about the stories that unfold on the field. From the players’ journeys to the strategies employed by the coaches, every aspect of the game contributes to the larger narrative of the AFL season. Matthews’ commentary will help to illuminate these stories, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of the game.
As the final preparations are made and the crowd roars in anticipation, the stage is set for an unforgettable night of AFL action. With Matthews making his debut in the commentary box, fans can expect a fresh perspective on the game they love.
As the players take their positions and the lights shine bright over the Gabba, one thing is certain: tonight's clash between Brisbane and Collingwood will be a memorable chapter in the AFL season. With Leigh Matthews at the helm of the commentary, fans are in for an engaging and thrilling experience.
