ITV4 commission

ITV4 has commissioned a new sports panel show hosted by Mark Watson

The new series, due to be broadcast later this autumn, will invite guests to put their own spin on the week’s sporting events, with points awarded for ‘unique opinions, punditry and sporting passion’ rather than correct answers

Mark Watson Kicks Off is produced by World’s End, who also make Radio Five Live’s Fighting Talk.

Zai Bennett, who commissioned the series, said: ‘ITV4 is renowned for bringing great sport and entertainment to viewers and this is a great fit for us. Mark is a fantastic comedian and presenter, and will be bringing his expert sporting knowledge to the show. It’s great to be welcoming him to the channel.’

Watson added: ‘I'm delighted to be taking the reins for what promises to be a festival of sport and banter. I can promise the fans I will give 110 percent, possibly as much as 115 on occasion. I'll be putting a top squad of pundits through their paces, refereeing in a firm but fair manner, and sometimes setting a captain's example by putting my own skills on the line.’

Published: 10 Sep 2010