O2 and the Rugby Football Union (RFU) today announced the launch of O2 Inside Line, a brand new magazine programme for RFUtv which will give a unique insight into the England Rugby team. Presented by ex-England International Austin Healey and sports presenter Abi Griffiths, O2 Inside Line will give the audience the opportunity to get that little bit closer with analysis, player interviews and exclusive behind the scenes content.

The first series of O2 Inside Line will be broadcast during the Investec International matches throughout November, with weekly episodes going live on Thursdays starting on 4th November and ending with a wrap up show after the final test against South Africa. Two further series are planned to support the RBS 6 Nations in the spring and the summer matches 2011 against the Barbarians in May and also Wales and Ireland in August.

Simon Freedman, Head of Sponsorship, O2, said: ‘O2 Inside Line is a highly original programme designed to bring fans closer to the action by providing light hearted but credible content including plenty of player engagement. With Austin and Abi hosting, the show aims to engage a wide community of sports fans across a variety of different online platforms. There’s nothing like it out there currently and we hope fans will tune in and enjoy the show.’

Paul Vaughan, Business Operation Director at the RFU, said: ‘RFUtv offers fans access to match highlights and player interviews and O2 Inside Line is a fantastic piece of original content that brings the fans up close and personal with the England team in a unique way. This creative innovation from the RFU and O2 demonstrates how sport can engage fans on many levels and through multiple media, providing information and player insights whilst having fun.’

O2 Inside Line TX Schedule

Thursday 4th November

Introduction show and preview Investec International, England vs. NZ 6th November

Thursday 11th November

Preview Investec International, England vs. Australia 13th November

Thursday 18th November

Preview Investec International, England vs. Samoa 20th November

Thursday 25th November

Preview Investec International, England vs. South Africa 27th November

Thursday 2nd December

Investec International wrap up show and look ahead to RBS 6 Nations

For further information visit www.o2insideline.com

Journalists can contact the Virgin Media O2 press office on:
press@virginmediao2.co.uk 01753 565656
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