Channel 9’s lead football reporter Tom Morris has made a dramatic switch to Channel 7, confirming one of the most talked-about media moves of the year.
According to Code Sports, the 34-year-old journalist informed Channel 9 early Friday that he had accepted a lucrative offer from the rival network.
“Seven’s head of sport, Chris Jones, and SEN boss Craig Hutchison were behind the successful poaching attempt,” reported Code Sports.
The move strengthens Channel 7’s team, which already includes top talents such as Mitch Cleary and Xander McGuire—both known for their sharp coverage of AFL. Morris, however, is not expected to replace Cleary as chief footy reporter but will join the commentary team in a supporting role.
This marks another big win for Channel 7, following its successful effort to bring Kane Cornes over from Channel 9 before the 2024 AFL season.
“Morris was persuaded by Channel 7’s extensive sports rights, covering both football and cricket,” the report added.
Having joined Channel 9 in January 2024, Morris’s move comes less than two years into his tenure with the network.
Tom Morris leaves Channel 9 for Channel 7 in a major sports media shake-up, drawn by broader coverage opportunities and a strong rival lineup.