BBC axe A Question of Sport host and captains in major shake up

There's going to be a completely new look for BBC's fan favourite A Question of Sport after the current series ends.

Host Sue Barker and team captains Phil Tufnell and Matt Dawson are all departing the show.

Former tennis pro Barker had been in the main seat for over two decades.

She first sat in the presenter's chair in 1997, replacing David Coleman.

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

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

Dawson, who played rugby for England internationally, had first appeared on the show in 2003.

He became a team captain opposite Ally McCoist the following year.

Tufnell replaced McCoist when the footballer departed the show in 2008.

The cricketer was a massive fan of the show before becoming a captain.

A Question of Sport has been running since the 1970's.

A BBC spokesperson said:

"We would like to thank Sue for her enormous contribution as the show's longest reigning host over the last 23 years, and Matt and Phil for their excellent team captaincy over 16 and 12 years respectively.

"Together they have ensured A Question of Sport remains a firm favourite with the BBC One audience.

"Sue, Matt and Phil's final series will be broadcast next year."

Commenting on Twitter on Sunday morning, Dawson wrote:

"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."

All three were present for undoubtedly the greatest moment in TV history.

We are, of course, talking about Paul O'Connell's answer to a hangman a few years ago.