Tune In to 3AW with Shane McInnes: GWS Giants vs Hawthorn Hawks AFL Clash at 3AM UK Time

For British and global fans eager to catch the electrifying start to the 2026 AFL Premiership Season, tune into 3AW Wide World of Sports hosted by veteran presenter Shane McInnes. This Saturday, 7 March 2026, at 03:00 UK time, witness the Opening Round showdown between the GWS Giants and Hawthorn Hawks at ENGIE Stadium, kicking off at 4:15pm AEDT. While UK viewers miss out on dedicated British channels like BBC, Sky Sports, ITV or TNT for this fixture, 3AW's Melbourne-based radio coverage offers unparalleled access to the action[1][4].

The match pits the ambitious GWS Giants, playing on home turf at ENGIE Stadium in Sydney, against a resurgent Hawthorn Hawks side looking to build on recent form. Scheduled as part of the AFL's Opening Round, this clash follows hot on the heels of earlier games like Sydney Swans' victory over Carlton and Gold Coast Suns' win against Geelong Cats[1][2]. Brisbane Lions face Western Bulldogs later that day at The Gabba, but GWS vs Hawks promises high-octane footy with both teams boasting strong line-ups. Giants' defence features names like J. Laverde, J. Buckley and C. Idun, while Hawks counter with B. Hardwick, T. Barrass and J. Scrimshaw[4].

At the helm of 3AW Wide World of Sports is Shane McInnes, a broadcasting stalwart with decades of experience in Melbourne radio. McInnes has been a fixture on 3AW, ARN's flagship station, delivering insightful AFL commentary since the early 2000s. Known for his engaging style and deep knowledge of the game, he has covered countless premiership seasons, grand finals and player interviews, earning respect from fans and players alike. His tenure includes memorable calls during Hawthorn's golden era of four flags in the 2010s, blending sharp analysis with passionate delivery that resonates with Aussie rules enthusiasts worldwide.

3AW, synonymous with sports radio in Victoria since 1935, remains the go-to for AFL coverage via its Wide World of Sports programme. The station's team provides ball-by-ball updates, expert punditry and post-match breakdowns, making it ideal for international listeners streaming online. For Brits adjusting to the 3AM start—equivalent to evening prime time Down Under—this radio feed captures the raw atmosphere of ENGIE Stadium, home to the Giants since 2012.

The GWS Giants, AFL's newest powerhouse established in 2009, have climbed the ladder with finals appearances and a grand final run in 2024. Under coach Adam Kingsley, they blend youthful talent with seasoned stars, aiming for their first premiership. Meanwhile, Hawthorn Hawks, 13-time champions with a dynasty under Alastair Clarkson, underwent a rebuild but signalled resurgence in 2025. New coach Sam Mitchell, a Hawks legend with 116 games and a 2013-15 three-peat, instils attacking flair[4].

Global fans can access 3AW via the station's app or website, perfect for following the 2026 AFL fixture that spans thrilling venues like the MCG, Gabba and Optus Stadium[1][3]. This Opening Round sets the tone for a season packed with rivalries, including later clashes like Collingwood vs St Kilda on March 8 at the MCG[3]. For more on the Giants, explore their official journey here.

Expect tactical battles: Giants' midfield dominance versus Hawks' forward pressure. With players like Giants' H. Himmelberg and Hawks' emerging talents, McInnes' broadcast will dissect every mark, tackle and goal. British audiences, growing in AFL fandom via streaming, will appreciate this authentic Aussie perspective—no hype, just pure footy passion.

As the siren sounds at 03:00 UK time, Shane McInnes and 3AW deliver the soundtrack to AFL's new chapter. Whether you're a die-hard or newcomer, this is your portal to the world's fastest game on grass. Don't miss the Giants-Hawks thriller that could shape the premiership race[5].

Article generated: 7 March 2026, 03:02 GMT