England Rugby fans split on 'hilarious' American commentators, it was a very different

The England YouTube channel coverage was actually done by the Americans, who brought their own quirky commentary team — and we kinda enjoyed it. The classic American-style ad breaks during stoppages made it feel unlike your usual rugby broadcast.

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That said, not everyone loved the “Americanisation” of the sport. Opinions were pretty split:

One fan said,
“I quite like the US comms. They’re trying hard and doing a let good job for the noob, but it’s also very good comedy value for an experienced viewer.”

Another added,
“Not sure what's worse, another inclement weather delay, the national anthems or the dross the commentators are spewing. You'd think USA would actually be quite good at putting on decent sporting spectacles.”

One found it hilarious:
“US commentator describing the 24 year old #VanPoortvliet as a ‘veteran 9’. Hilarious.”

A Scot chimed in,
“As a Scot, I hope every English player absolutely levels Rufus McLean today. Does not deserve to be playing test rugby after what he's done.”

Another called it,
“American commentary is absolutely hilarious, both the best and worst part of this game.”

While one more was less impressed:
“American commentary is really the worst. Stop giving us your opinion on each players life story.”

Another questioned the commentators’ knowledge:
“Have the American commentators on @RugbyPass ever seen a game of rugby before…? Called a ‘forward ball’, a turnover from a knock-on and had no idea what the yellow card from the deliberate knock-on was for…”

One bluntly stated,
“Fucking horrendous commentary on this, hopefully the lightening comes back.”

Yet another noted the entertainment value:
“I will say, this US commentary is good comedy value. I'm not sure I can take 80 minutes of it though.”

One more observed,
“We now have a product placement ad from the commentators in the water break. Could this be any more American? I'm loving the comedy value.”

And finally,
“Actually really enjoying this commentary! Entertaining, different and refreshing to hear them continuously talk positive about the game! Not sure JVP will be happy to hear ‘veteran 9’ though.”

The American commentary was definitely a talking point — some loved the laughs, others hated the cluelessness. One thing’s for sure: it was unlike any rugby commentary you’ve heard before.