Fox quits Sky Sport - look who's taking his spot

Jeff Wilson. Photo / Supplied

All Black legend Grant Fox has quit the Sky Sport commentary box, and will be replaced by another TVNZ defector, former wonder wing Jeff Wilson.

Fox, widely considered one of the greatest No10s in world rugby, will leave the channel before next year's rugby season begins. It is understood he wanted more time with his family.

He has had a permanent role at Sky for three years but has been involved with Australian and New Zealand commentary teams on and off since 1995.

Sky TV spokeswoman Kirsty Way said Wilson, 38, would join Sky Sports for this year's Super 15 rugby season.

"[Wilson] was an exceptional player and of course we're delighted to have someone of his talent and expertise joining our team," she said.

Wilson will join Sky's main rugby commentators Grant Nisbett and Tony Johnson and supporting commentators Justin Marshall and Ian Smith.

His move marked another loss for TVNZ to a rival network. He was hired by the broadcaster last year to provide expert commentary for TV One during the Rugby World Cup.

Head of news, current affairs and sport Anthony Flannery said at the time that Wilson would be "a real asset" for the station.

TVNZ spokeswoman Megan Richards said Wilson was no longer contracted to TVNZ.

"He's an independent contractor and therefore entitled to take work where he can find it.

"We're very happy to have had him and wish him luck in finding work where he [can].

"No doubt he'll be on the market from time to time and we'll keep him in mind."

Last week, the state broadcaster's political editor, Guyon Espiner, left for rival TV3, where he will work for 60 Minutes.

TVNZ chief executive and editor-in-chief Rick Ellis will leave in February to take up a new role at Telstra in Australia. Flannery is also going to Australia to work for Network Ten.