Mark Bickley still on the airwaves as Stephen Rowe becomes solo host of FIVEaa’s new-look drivetime sports show

FIVEaa’s drivetime sports show might have a new look but longtime co-host Mark Bickley isn’t going anywhere just yet.

Reports of Mark Bickley’s departure from radio station FIVEaa have been greatly exaggerated.

While the Crows dual-premiership captain has bid farewell as a full-time host of the Rowey and Bicks Sports Show, Bickley will remain a regular guest on the drivetime program, which will now be presented solo byStephen Rowe.

“It’s been an amazing six years on the show. You could say that getting paid to watch, and then sit and talk about sport is somewhat of a dream job,” said Bickley.

FIVEaa’s old drivetime sports show team Stephen Rowe, Jarrod Walsh and Mark Bickley. Picture: Supplied.

“While it will be strange not doing the show every day next year, I’m looking forward to getting stuck into some new challenges. But am excited to still be hanging around at FIVEaa.”

In September it was revealed Bickley’s contract would not be renewed for 2021 as the impact of COVID-19 continues to hit the media industry.

It’s been a year of big change for FIVEaa’s drivetime show, which also said goodbye to popular anchor and sports MC Walsh in September.

Leith Forrest will take over the anchor role on the new program, and produce alongside Sam Tugwell.

Mark Bickley and Graham Cornes at Adelaide Oval.

In addition to his twice-a-week guest spots on the new-look Rowey’s Sports Show, Bickley will continue to be part of the FIVEaa’s AFL commentary team and will also co-host the station’s breakfast show for a couple of weeks over the summer.

“I’m looking forward to remaining a part of the commentary team in what will hopefully be a much-improved season for the Crows,” said Bickley, started at FIVEaa in 2015, after a decorated on-field career with Crows including 272 matches and two flags, before retiring after the 2003 season.

Mark Bickley with his wife Tory and sons Tyson and Xavier in the background.

“Outside the studio, I’m probably most excited to have more time up my sleeve to spend with my family.

“I’m sure (wife) Tory will find plenty of jobs for me around the house.”