Sam Tomkins takes on surprise new role after retirement

Wigan Warriors legend Sam Tomkins, the former England captain and two-time Man of Steel, has hung up his boots after a glittering 15-year career and will join Sky Sports as an analyst.

He retired at the end of the 2023 Super League season, which saw him clinch three Grand Final wins, two Challenge Cups, two League Leaders Shields, and two Man of Steel awards.

With 352 appearances and 1,462 points under his belt for both club and country, Tomkins is one of Super League’s most decorated players of the modern era. In his new role as an analyst on Sky Sports, he will provide his unrivalled insight, expert opinion and analysis for the biggest-ever season of Super League on Sky Sports and NOW.

On joining Sky Sports, Tomkins said: “It’s a real pleasure to be joining such a talented team. Sky Sports is Rugby League’s greatest partner and has played an important role in the sport for as long as I’ve been playing so it’s brilliant to now be working here.

“I can’t wait to turn my hand to being a full-time broadcaster and impart some of the experience and insight I’ve taken from the changing room and out on the pitch to those watching at home.”

Tomkins is the latest addition to the team, which has already been bolstered by four-time Super League Grand Final winner, Kyle Amor and broadcasters Dave Woods and Mark Wilson.

They join Sky Sports following a historic rights deal made last year, giving Super League fans the chance to watch every Betfred Super League match live for the first time.

Helen Falkus, Sky Sports director of multi sports, added: “To be able to welcome someone of Sam’s stature within the game is hugely exciting. From the conversations we’ve had, you can already tell there’s a real desire to contribute and learn.

“This is set to be our biggest Rugby League season yet on Sky Sports and we’re the only place fans can watch every game live. The signings of Sam alongside Kyle, Dave and Mark really signal our intent to bring fans the best coverage possible.”

How can I watch Super League in the UK?

Sky Sports and NOW are the only platforms where you can watch every game of the Super League live throughout the season. This includes all six matches in each round, amounting to approximately 170 games per year on both Sky and NOW. Fans can watch the Magic Weekend fixtures, Playoffs, and all three Grand Finals, namely – Men’s, Women’s and Wheelchair.

Renewed investment in the sport will result in video referees featuring in all Super League matches, thereby ensuring increased consistency and integrity.

In addition to live matches, fans can access a range of support programming such as interviews and features on Sky Sports. They can stay updated with the latest rugby league news on skysports.com, Sky Sports’ social media channels, the Sky Sports App, and Sky Sports News. Non-Sky subscribers can stream every Betfred Super League live match with a NOW Sports Month membership.

BBC is likely to cover games on Saturday night on BBC Two from 17:30. RL Commercial and IMG have also developed plans for a streaming service called SuperLeague+.