RUGBY league commentator Bill Arthur has died, aged 68, after a long battle with prostate cancer dating back to 2011.

Sky Sports this morning announced that Bill died peacefully on Wednesday surrounded by his family having inspired many with his courageous battle against the disease.

The RFL this morning paid tribute to the man who became the regular pitchside reporter for live matches from the early 90s and a key part of Sky’s Super League coverage.

He become Sky Sports' lead rugby league commentator following Eddie Hemmings' retirement in April 2019.

 

It meant he was on the mic to commentate on the 2020 Grand Final, when a then 19-year-old Jack Welsby snatched a famous victory for Saints over Wigan Warriors on the last play of the game.

Jonathan Licht, Managing Director of Sky Sports, said: "We are truly saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague Bill Arthur.

"Bill has been a mainstay of Sky Sports' rugby league coverage for the last 30 years. I want to express my personal gratitude to Bill for his unwavering commitment to Sky, as well as the passion and devotion he brought to our viewers and fans of the sport.

"I know that Bill will be greatly missed by those who were lucky enough to work with him, and I would like to extend my condolences to Bill's wife, Cherry, and his family for their loss."

St Helens-born commentator Stuart Pyke was among the many colleagues leaving tributes on the Sky Sports website this morning.

Stuart wrote: “Bill was the ultimate professional and the loyalest of friends. A broadcaster who was hugely respected and a mate who was hugely loved.

“His commentary of Jack Welsby's last-second try to win the 2020 Super League Grand Final will forever be one of the most iconic moments in the history of the sport.

“His contribution to rugby league is immeasurable.”

Prior to working with Sky Sports Bill’s journalism career started with the Barnsley Star and Sheffield Star before switching to radio, working for Metro Radio in Newcastle and Liverpool’s Radio City and moving into breakfast television with TV AM.

He is survived by his wife Cherry and children, Simon, Meredith, Kit and Nancy.