Question of Sport slammed for axing Sue Barker who admits she was 'removed'

The BBC has been accused of axing A Question of Sport stars as part of a bid to add more diversity.

Sue Barker has revealed she has been axed from the game show, alongside her co-stars Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell.

The stars say they were 'bind-sighted' by the decision with long-term host Sue Barker hinting the decision was not one that she made herself.

"I love the show so much they would have to remove me, it would have been tough for me to walk away," said Sue, after the announcement was made.

Now fans of A Question of Sport has questioned whether they are shaking up the show by swapping its all-white cast for a more diverse panel.

One person tweeted: "“Sick and tired of all that's good getting thrown out for the sake of diversity or age.”

Another complained: "First, Sky TV axe three white presenters, now A Question of Sport, drops Sue Barker, Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell, another three white presenters, for no other reason that to promote DIVERSITY.

"What is going on in the world ? Nothing wrong with diversity, but why be so blatant?" 

A third  asked: "Why change something that works?? They are a great team! It’s so funny."

However, others supported the BBC's decision saying it was 'time for a change.'

"If we stuck with that nothing would evolve at all, things change the new versions can be better than the old or attract a wider audience - they can also bring new talent through which is a good thing," commented one.

Hots Sue, who has been on the show for 24 years, revealed the BBC wanted to take the show in a "new direction".

She said: "I've absolutely loved my 24 years fronting A Question of Sport, it's been my dream job.

"But I understand the BBC want to take the show in a new direction and I'm sad to say goodbye."

When quizzed on Twitter about the move, Matt Dawson appeared baffled, writing: "Thanks for all the lovely messages. I’m not sure how to respond so I’ll have a think . Needless to say I will miss @QuestionofSport immensely...."

Fellow team captain Phil Tufnell posted: “13 yrs Question of Sport has been a great part of life, going to miss it hugely, thanks so much for all the lovely messages.”

Mirror Online has contacted the BBC for comment.