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This match took place on August 16, 2025. Click here for commentator listings for todays matches.

Who Is Commentating on Barnsley vs Bolton Wanderers on August 16, 2025? BBC Radio 5 Live and Local Coverage Details

The English League One match between Barnsley and Bolton Wanderers on Saturday, 16 August 2025, kicks off at 15:00 UK time at Oakwell Stadium. For British football fans looking to follow the game live, the match will be broadcast on BBC Radio 5 Live nationwide, as well as on local BBC radio stations and Bolton's own streaming service, Wanderers TV.

BBC Radio 5 Live, one of the UK's primary sports broadcasters, is covering this League One encounter with reporter Sanny Rudravajhala providing updates and insights throughout the game. Rudravajhala is known for her work across football coverage, having reported on numerous English Football League fixtures, bringing a detailed and engaging style to listeners.

For more regionally-focused commentary, the game is available on BBC Radio Manchester and BBC Radio Sheffield. BBC Radio Manchester's coverage features Jack Dearden as the main commentator, with co-commentary from Keith Hill, a former professional footballer and manager with extensive experience in the English leagues. Hill brings a wealth of tactical knowledge and inside knowledge, having managed clubs including Rochdale and Bolton Wanderers in the past, making his input particularly valuable for fans seeking expert analysis.

Meanwhile, BBC Radio Sheffield offers reports from Andy Giddings, a respected local correspondent who specialises in Northern England football coverage, capturing the atmosphere around Barnsley’s home matches.

Dedicated Bolton Wanderers supporters can also tune into Bolton FM or watch the game on Wanderers TV, the club's official online streaming platform. Both outlets feature commentary from Derek Clark and former Bolton striker John McGinlay. McGinlay, a cult hero at Bolton with a notable playing career at the club and in Scotland, now offers expert co-commentary backed by his deep connection to the club and knowledge of League One football dynamics. Derek Clark, a seasoned commentator with experience covering lower league football, partners with McGinlay to deliver detailed play-by-play and insightful analysis.

The match is expected to be a competitive encounter as Barnsley currently sit second in the League One table, while Bolton Wanderers are positioned 13th. Both sides have recent positive results leading up to the clash, adding extra intrigue to this fixture at Oakwell.

About the Commentators and Presenters

Sanny Rudravajhala has been a prominent voice on BBC Radio 5 Live, contributing to live football broadcasts and offering match reports that combine detailed observation with a passion for the game. Her work across women’s and men’s football provides a balanced perspective that listeners appreciate.

Jack Dearden is regularly involved in BBC Radio Manchester's coverage of local football, and his commentary style is noted for its clear, insightful delivery suited to both casual listeners and avid fans.

Keith Hill transitioned into media after an extensive managerial career and playing days predominantly as a midfielder. His tactical acumen and familiarity with clubs like Bolton add a unique layer to his commentary.

Andy Giddings specialises in delivering live updates and commentary from Sheffield and surrounding areas, making him the go-to reporter for Barnsley matches on BBC Radio Sheffield.

Derek Clark has decades of experience commentating at local and national levels, while John McGinlay combines his on-field experience with a charismatic commentary style that engages both supporters and neutrals alike when analysing Bolton Wanderers performances.

Where to Listen and Watch

UK listeners can tune in to BBC Radio 5 Live via FM, DAB, or online streaming for national coverage. For local perspectives, fans in the Greater Manchester area should switch to BBC Radio Manchester, whilst the South Yorkshire region can hear live updates via BBC Radio Sheffield. Bolton Wanderers fans have the additional option of following the match on Bolton FM or Wanderers TV, the latter offering streaming directly from the club’s official broadcast platform.

This diverse range of broadcast options ensures fans across the UK and beyond can access expert commentary and live updates tailored to their level of interest and locality.

Background on the Teams and Match Context

Barnsley and Bolton Wanderers have a rich history and a competitive rivalry in the English Football League. Barnsley currently rank second in League One for the 2025 season, while Bolton stand in a mid-table 13th position. Recent form suggests an intriguing clash as Barnsley have won their previous league encounter against Bolton and have shown a potent attack mechanism this season, whereas Bolton recently suffered a narrow loss on penalties in the EFL Cup, underlying their competitive spirit.

The Oakwell Stadium is an iconic venue in South Yorkshire, renowned for its passionate football atmosphere which the BBC and local commentators aim to capture vividly during the broadcast.

External Resources

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Click here for full commentator listing for Barnsley v Bolton Wanderers