The Today show has named Michael Atkinson as its new sports presenter, days after Danika Mason bid farewell to the role.
Atkinson had already been filling the weekend co-host role at Today, but will now move into the weekday slot following Mason’s exit on Friday.
Atkinson on Monday morning said it was a “pleasure” to be taking on hosting duties.
“Sport is in my veins. From growing up on rugby league, swimming and cricket in country Queensland, to playing Aussie Rules and tennis as a schoolboy, playing and working in rugby union as an adult, and working on netball and the Olympics in the media, I feel connected to every variety of sport,” Atkinson said.
Atkinson paid tribute to his two Weekend Today co-hosts Alison Piotrowski and Lizzie Pearl.
“Not only are Ali and Lizzie exceptional professionals, but they have also challenged me to be a better broadcaster and we have become close friends,” he said.
“The past 10 or so months on Weekend Today have been some of the most enjoyable of my career to date and I’m eternally grateful for the experience of sharing the desk with Ali and Lizzie.”
Nine’s Director of Morning Television Steve Burling said Atkinson’s “love of sport runs deep and he is the perfect fit to join Today”.
During her final address on Friday morning, Mason said her commitments had steadily been growing and “something had to give”.
“I’ve had to make the decision as to what I do when I come back next year,” she said.
“Obviously, juggling all my NRL commitments, Today show and the new baby as well … something had to give.
“I won’t be coming back to the show. I’ve absolutely loved my time here. We have the best audience and the best team.
“It has been such a fun two years. I’ve had the best time.”
Mason’s depature from Today brings to four the number of those to have left the beleagured show – following Karl Stefanvovic, Sarah Abo and popular weather presenter Tim Davies.