Listen to Jimmy Bartel, Sam Docherty and Cal Twomey on 3AW Wide World of Sports for AFL Action at 7AM UK Time

Australian Football League (AFL) fans in the UK and around the globe can tune in early this morning at 07:00 UK time to catch the 3AW Wide World of Sports programme, hosted by Geelong legend Jimmy Bartel and featuring punditry from Sam Docherty and draft expert Cal Twomey. Broadcasting live from Melbourne on 3AW, this session promises incisive analysis and lively debate as the AFL season heats up on Thursday, 19 March 2026[1][7].

While UK viewers won't find coverage on familiar channels like BBC, Sky Sports, ITV or TNT Sports – which often air major AFL fixtures – the 3AW radio broadcast offers an authentic Australian perspective, accessible via streaming apps for international audiences eager for real-time insights. Melbourne's premier station, 3AW, has solidified its status as the go-to destination for AFL coverage, blending expert commentary with passionate talkback[1].

Leading the charge is Jimmy Bartel, a towering figure in AFL history. The former Geelong Cats star, inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame, boasts an illustrious career spanning 305 games, three premierships, a Brownlow Medal in 2007 – where he polled a record 29 votes for the Cats – and a Norm Smith Medal. One of only three players alongside Simon Black and Dustin Martin to claim both a Brownlow and Norm Smith while playing over 300 games, Bartel's transition to media has been seamless. In 2025, he stepped up to host Wide World of Sports, Thursday Night Footy and Friday Night Footy on 3AW, succeeding Sam McClure and earning praise for his deep game knowledge and audience rapport[1][2][5]. His charitable efforts, like raising funds for Very Special Kids, further endear him to listeners[1].

Joining Bartel is Sam Docherty, the resilient Carlton Blues veteran known for his on-field tenacity and off-field candour. A regular on 3AW's AFL panels, including the star-studded 2025 Grand Final coverage alongside Tim Lane, Matt Granland and Matthew Lloyd, Docherty brings gritty insights from his playing days. Recent headlines highlighted controversy around a snub from a Carlton pre-match function after unauthorised podcast comments, underscoring his outspoken nature that fuels compelling radio discourse[3][6].

Completing the trio is Cal Twomey, 3AW's draft guru whose expertise on emerging talent is unmatched. Twomey frequently contributes to the station's football coverage, offering foresight on prospects that shapes fan expectations for seasons ahead, making him a staple for those tracking AFL's future stars[8].

The AFL, Australia's premier rules football competition, captivates with its high-octane action, and 3AW's team exemplifies why it's the number one station for the sport. This morning's Wide World of Sports at 07:00 UK time aligns perfectly for British fans rising early or night owls winding down, delivering the latest on matches, player moves and league buzz straight from Melbourne's airwaves[1]. Stream nationally via the 3AW app, with features like audio sync for synced commentary to video feeds enhancing the experience[3].

For context, Jimmy Bartel's media ascent includes high-profile debates, such as slamming Brownlow Medal changes alongside Eddie McGuire ahead of the 2026 season, debating MRO tweaks, Opening Round improvements and fixture clashes[4]. His role extends to grand occasions, anchoring 3AW's 2025 AFL Grand Final team with legends like Leigh Matthews and Caroline Wilson[3].

UK and global AFL enthusiasts have embraced the sport's raw intensity, with growing communities following via radio and digital platforms. 3AW's all-star lineup ensures no detail is missed, from tactical breakdowns to heated debates. Whether dissecting Carlton's recent form – as Sam McClure critiqued their 'acceptance of mediocrity' post-Richmond win – or previewing draft hauls with Twomey, this broadcast is essential listening[6].

Discover more about Jimmy Bartel's legendary career on his Wikipedia page[2]. As AFL's global footprint expands, sessions like today's underscore radio's enduring power in delivering unfiltered passion. Tune in at 07:00 UK time on 3AW for an unmissable start to your AFL day – where legends like Bartel, Docherty and Twomey bring the game alive.

Article generated: 19 March 2026, 07:00 GMT