Where to Watch Collingwood v Hawthorn AFL Round 8: Jason Richardson Hosts Kick Ons with Kane Cornes, Josh Jenkins and Kate McCarthy

Football fans across the UK and globally gearing up for the thrilling Collingwood v Hawthorn clash in AFL Round 8 on Thursday, 30 April 2026, can catch the post-match analysis on the Kick Ons programme airing on Channel 7 and 7+. Kicking off at 7:30 PM AEST at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), this blockbuster match translates to 14:30 UK time, making it a perfect afternoon watch for British audiences. While no UK free-to-air channels like BBC, Sky Sports, ITV or TNT Sports are broadcasting live AFL action this season, enthusiasts can stream via AFL's official platforms or international feeds, with Kick Ons providing expert Australian coverage immediately after.

The 2026 AFL season, marking the 130th edition of Australia's premier Australian rules football competition, introduces exciting changes including a five-player interchange replacing the substitute rule and thrown-ups instead of bounced balls at restarts[3]. Collingwood Magpies face off against Hawthorn Hawks in a traditional rivalry renewed at the MCG, where gates open from 5:00 PM for members and 5:30 PM for public, with tickets available via Ticketek[4]. This Round 8 opener sets the tone for a packed weekend, followed by Western Bulldogs v Fremantle and more[1][2].

Leading the Kick Ons coverage is seasoned presenter Jason Richardson, a staple of Channel 7's AFL broadcasts. With years of experience anchoring footy shows, Richardson's engaging style bridges the gap between on-field action and studio debate, ensuring viewers get incisive post-game breakdowns. Joining him are three heavyweights in punditry: Kane Cornes, the outspoken former Port Adelaide premiership player who played 300 games and won the 2004 flag. Now a prominent analyst, Cornes is renowned for his no-nonsense takes on player performance and team strategy, often sparking heated discussions on air.

Josh Jenkins brings a forward's perspective, having booted 441 goals across 200+ games for Adelaide, Essendon and Geelong. Retiring in 2021, Jenkins transitioned seamlessly into media, offering tactical insights from his ruck-rover days and key position nous, making him a fan favourite for breaking down forward-line dynamics. Rounding out the panel is Kate McCarthy, a trailblazing journalist and former netball star who represented Australia. McCarthy's sharp interviews and balanced commentary have elevated Channel 7's coverage, blending her athletic background with media savvy to dissect women's and men's AFL alike.

For UK viewers missing traditional broadcasters, the world feed and AFL's digital streams provide access, though Channel 7's Kick Ons remains the go-to for authentic Aussie reaction. This programme dives deep into match stats, controversial umpiring calls and player ratings, perfect for global fans following the 18-team league's 23-round home-and-away slog leading to a expanded top-10 finals series[3]. Highlights from past clashes, like intense Magpies-Hawks encounters, underscore the rivalry's intensity[5].

Planning your watch? No general public parking at the MCG, but disability spots are available[4]. Internationally, tune into Kick Ons for unfiltered analysis from these experts whose careers span premiership glory to media stardom. Learn more about the Collingwood Football Club's history ahead of this pivotal Round 8 battle. Whether you're a die-hard Pies or Hawks supporter or new to Aussie rules, this coverage promises edge-of-your-seat insights at 14:30 UK time.

The AFL's global appeal grows, with British fans increasingly hooked on its physicality and skill. Kane Cornes' bold predictions, Jenkins' goal-kicking wisdom and McCarthy's fresh angles under Richardson's helm make Kick Ons essential viewing post-whistle.

Article generated: 30 April 2026, 14:31 GMT