ABC dumps Glenn McGrath over betting deal ahead of the Ashes

ABC has removed fast-bowling legend Glenn McGrath from its Ashes commentary team, enforcing a strict policy that bars employees from holding relationships with betting agencies.

McGrath’s long-standing partnership with bet365 - a company that has been a major supporter of the McGrath Foundation’s Pink Test - put him in breach of the broadcaster’s rules.

The ABC maintains that on-air talent cannot hold commercial ties with wagering brands, even when those relationships sit outside journalism.

Discussions over McGrath’s role escalated to the top of the organisation, with ABC managing director Hugh Marks involved in the process. Ultimately, it was determined that allowing an exception would undermine the policy.

In a statement to Mediaweek an ABC spokesperson confirmed the decision: "The ABC and Glenn McGrath have mutually parted ways for this Ashes. We look forward to seeing Glenn around the grounds throughout the series and would welcome working with him in the future. Our great commentary team, led by Jim Maxwell and Corbin Middlemas, is excited for the first test in Perth this Friday"

While he’s off the national broadcaster’s airwaves, McGrath won’t be silenced. He will still feature across the Ashes through the BBC, which shares commentators with the ABC.

McGrath has been part of the ABC’s summer cricket coverage for several seasons, becoming a familiar voice across domestic and international matches.

This is not the first time the broadcaster has enforced the line.

Fellow former Test quick Mitchell Johnson was also booted from the ABC commentary team in 2022 for having a deal with betting agency Bet Nation.

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