Joanne Cantwell to anchor The Sunday Game in 2019

A new era for a proven gem.

Michael Lyster's 35 years as anchor of The Sunday Game will come to a close at the end of 2018 and Joanne Cantwell is the chosen one to take over. RTÉ announced that the Dubliner will host the nation's flagship show after rising through the ranks and really impressing the entire country since joining in 2007. Cantwell has, frankly, been brilliant in the last number of years as anchor of massive sporting shows. Whether it was the GAA and Saturday Game Live, whether it was soccer and the station's Champions League coverage, or her captivating performance at the Rio Olympics, she has really shone in every role. https://twitter.com/SportsJOEdotie/status/766731487261720576 In 2019, she will be the new face of The Sunday Game and, as a host, Gaels all over the island should be thrilled. She cuts through the nonsense, she gets to the real talking point, she pushes back and offers opposing sides of the argument and she'll definitely be good enough - and has been - to not let Brolly run riot. She is the best choice - a completely natural one - to take over and she will slide into such a big role seamlessly.

"I'm passionate about our national games and having joined RTÉ as sideline reporter on The Sunday Game Live 11 years ago, I'm delighted to take up the anchor position on such an iconic show," she told RTÉ during the announcement. "Michael Lyster is a true broadcasting legend whom I've always greatly admired. He has held the fort for the past 34 years in his own inimitable style. "I'm really looking forward to taking over the reins in 2019. In the meantime I also look forward to my continued roles on RTÉ Radio 1's Saturday Sport and as reporter on the Sunday Game for what looks like a really exciting season."

Best of luck, Joanne.