Where to Watch Rotherham United vs Blackpool: BBC Radio Lancashire Commentary Team Revealed

Football fans looking to follow Rotherham United vs Blackpool in League One this weekend can tune into BBC Radio Lancashire for full match commentary. The 3pm kick-off on Saturday 5th April 2025 will be called by an experienced broadcasting team led by Ian Chisnall with expert analysis from Steve Thompson.

BBC Radio Lancashire's Commentary Lineup

The main commentator for this crucial League One clash will be Ian Chisnall, a seasoned broadcaster who has been BBC Radio Lancashire's lead football commentator since 2003. Chisnall has covered over 1,000 matches across his career, including numerous Blackpool games during their Premier League era. His distinctive voice and encyclopedic knowledge of North West football make him one of the most respected local radio commentators in the country.

Joining Chisnall in the commentary box will be former Blackpool midfielder Steve Thompson as co-commentator. Thompson enjoyed two spells with the Seasiders as a player between 1993-1997 and 2000-2002, making over 200 appearances. Since retiring, he's become a regular pundit on BBC Radio Lancashire, offering insightful tactical analysis drawn from his extensive playing experience that included stints at Burnley and Leicester City.

How to Listen to the Coverage

BBC Radio Lancashire's coverage will be available on FM radio across the county, with the broadcast also streaming online via the BBC Sounds website and app. The station typically begins its football coverage 30 minutes before kick-off, with build-up including team news, interviews and pre-match analysis.

For those unable to access BBC Radio Lancashire, the EFL's official website provides alternative radio options, though these may not feature the same local expertise as the BBC's coverage.

The Importance of the Fixture

This match could prove crucial at both ends of the League One table. Rotherham, recently relegated from the Championship, will be pushing for an immediate return, while Blackpool's form under manager Neil Critchley has seen them emerge as play-off contenders. The reverse fixture earlier in the season ended in a 2-2 draw, suggesting another closely-fought encounter is likely.

With no live television coverage of this match (as it falls within the UK's 3pm Saturday blackout period), radio commentary remains the best way for fans to follow the action in real-time. The BBC's local radio network continues to provide excellent coverage of EFL matches, with dedicated teams who know their clubs inside out.

Alternative Ways to Follow the Match

For those who prefer written updates, the BBC Sport website will provide live text commentary and score updates. Many fans also follow their club's official social media accounts for team news and match updates.

While international viewers may have access to television coverage through their local broadcasters, UK-based supporters will need to rely on radio or digital platforms to stay updated with this important League One clash.

With Ian Chisnall's authoritative commentary and Steve Thompson's expert analysis, BBC Radio Lancashire promises to deliver comprehensive coverage of what should be an entertaining encounter between two of League One's most ambitious clubs.