Sky has announced that it will launch a pop-up channel, Sky Sports The Lions, for the British and Irish Lions' hugely-anticipated tour of South Africa.
The channel - operating from July 17 to August 10 in place of Sky Sports Action - will offer 24-hour programming dedicated to the all-star rugby squad ahead of the three-Test series.
As well as coverage of the games, the channel will also broadcast warm-up matches, a Sunday morning show called the Lions Breakfast Show and five-episode Springboks documentary Chasing The Sun.
"We're thrilled to be working with the British & Irish Lions to bring our viewers a seventh consecutive Lions tour – a partnership that has now entered its 25th year – and we're looking forward to seeing some thrilling rugby played in South Africa against the current World Champions," said Sky Sports MD Jonathan Licht.
"With fans unable to cheer on the Lions in person, we're pleased to be able to bring the best of the action to the Sea of Red back home."
Presenters and panellists on the channel will include former Lions captain Sam Warburton and England legends Will Greenwood and Maggie Alphonsi.
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