LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Rugby League legend Phil Gould has been benched by Channel 9 for the NRL Grand Final after copping flak from passionate fans.
Despite being a heavyweight in the league scene, the 66-year-old won't be gracing the screens for the clash between the Penrith Panthers and Melbourne Storm.
Instead of calling the shots for the big dance, Gould has been relegated to the State Championship Grand Final between Newtown Jets and Norths Devils earlier in the day.
Channel 9 has opted for Andrew Johns and Billy Slater as the star players in the commentary box, with Mat Thompson handling play-by-play duties and Brad Fittler and Danika Mason on the sidelines.
The decision to sideline Gould for the Panthers v Storm showdown comes after his controversial commentary, particularly during grand finals, has ruffled feathers in recent years.
His absence from the main event signals a changing of the guard in the broadcasting ranks.