Change Our Game Ambassador and former Matilda, Tal Karp will front an expert team as part of the Optus Sport FIFA Women's World Cup broadcast team.

Optus Sport announced this week that Karp will join a team of big names who will provide expert analysis including FFA Hall of Fame inductee Cheryl Salisbury, Wanderers W-League assistant coach Catherine Cannuli and former W-League players Ash Sykes, Amy Chapman and Georgia Yeoman-Dale.

“It’s a pleasure to be working alongside some of the best names in the business, I’m really looking forward to it.” Tal said following the announcement.

Director of the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation, Dr Bridie O'Donnell congratulated Tal following the announcement,

"We are thrilled to see Tal named as part of the Optus Sport broadcast team. Tal's football  knowledge and experience is unparalleled having represented the Matilda's at various international events including the 2004 Athens Olympics, 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup and 2002 Women's U.S. Cup. Tal is an outstanding ambassador for the Change Our Game initiative and has an accomplished career beyond her impressive football CV, making her a popular role model for women and girls looking to excel both on and off the pitch." Bridie said.

The broadcast will be spearheaded by Mel McLaughlin and Amy Duggan who will host the overnight coverage of all 52 games of the tournament, with presenter Richard Bayliss leading the live highlights show each morning. Mel is looking forward to working with a team of experts all with a variety of experience on and off the pitch.

"I don’t think people realise just how exciting and how massive this tournament is going to be and how lucky we are to be seeing every single minute," Mel said in an interview with Optus Sport.

“Add to that, the Matildas are genuine contenders and the whole month is going to feel like Christmas for football fans.

“I’m in awe of the broadcast team that Optus Sport has put together, some of this team I have loved and idolised for years. I’m just so proud to be part of what will be the most comprehensive coverage this country has seen – and what the game and the Matildas deserve.” Mel said.

Image via Optus Sport

The full broadcast team will consist of;

Hosts: Amy Duggan, Melanie McLaughlin and Richard Bayliss.

Experts: Heather Garriock, Alicia Ferguson, Cheryl Salisbury, Mark Schwarzer, John Aloisi, Catherine Cannuli, Ashley Sykes, Georgia Yeoman-Dale, Amy Chapman, Tal Karp, Dean Heffernan and Ante Juric.

Reporters: Jules Breach, Niav Owens and Michelle Escobar.