The ACC returns with charged glasses and still no access   14 Sep 2015

NZME.

The Alternative Commentary Collective returns with charged glasses and still no access

If you thought the Alternative Commentary Collective (ACC) was in hibernation over winter and nursing a ginormous Cricket World Cup hangover think again!

The ACC is returning to treat New Zealand sports fans around the world to the same cutting edge insights and comprehensive coverage of New Zealand’s national game that cricket fans have long enjoyed.

Champagne Rugby is an online video series, available exclusively on NZME’s digital platforms, featuring ACC founder Mike Lane and Radio Hauraki hosts Jeremy Wells, Matt Heath, Leigh Hart and Jason Hoyte on a panel show as they attempt to preview and review New Zealand’s favourite pastime.

Wells says the idea for Champagne Rugby was born out of a desire to provide sports fans with a different view of rugby outside mainstream coverage.

“I'll be honest, most of the ACC commentary team wouldn't know a 'squeeze ball' from an 'incorrect entry' but we've done some late night sessions with Secret Witness 'B' 'from the Peter Plumley-Walker trial so I'm hopeful we'll be up to speed before the first pool game.”

With six shows, Champagne Rugby will deliver expert commentary and in depth analysis with the most exclusive behind the scenes access… without having any access whatsoever. And if you're game enough join the ACC as they assist Stephen 'Beaver' Donald in hosting a special ALL BLACK Tours charter fan flight for the Semi and Finals weekends, which will see the final two Champagne Rugby shows filmed 'live' from London.

With absolutely no expertise in rugby commentary, some might argue in cricket either, the ACC is the brainchild of Wells, a Parnell social cricketer and one of the most hated people in Gore, along with Beige Brigade co-founder Mike Lane. They are joined by parenting columnist Matt Heath, cricket umpire/actor Jason Hoyte and media mogul Leigh Hart.

Champagne Rugby launches on Thursday, 24th September 2015 with four shows from the New Zealand studio and two from London. All shows can be viewed on NZME’s digital platforms theaccnz.com and nzherald.co.nz.

ENDS

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