ABC Broadcaster Defends Reporter Amidst Criticism of World Cup Interview

ABC broadcaster Aaron Kearney has strongly defended Channel 7 reporter Jelisa Apps after her post-match interview with Fiji star Kurt Donoghoe drew criticism from some viewers. Kearney, director of engagement and programs at ABC International Development, urged critics to "hang your heads," citing the demanding circumstances under which Apps was working.

The interview, conducted after Fiji's 36-22 defeat to Australia in the World Cup, came under scrutiny when Donoghoe, who had swapped jerseys with an Australian player, appeared in a Kangaroos shirt. Some viewers suggested Apps mistook Donoghoe for an Australian player, a notion Seven disputes, asserting she knew his identity and allegiance.

Kearney highlighted that Apps had been covering emerging journalists in Papua New Guinea just hours before the interview, following a week of demanding work in challenging conditions. He described her likely arrival at the late Sunday assignment after approximately 12 consecutive days of intensive work, facing pressure for a live international broadcast.

"Shame on those shaming the Channel 7 reporter for her post-match interview (shockingly including women I thought more of)," Kearney wrote on social media. "Yep, she was discombobulated - the subject was wearing the opposition's shirt, for goodness sake." He added, "If you haven't been there - you don't know. It wasn't her finest moment but she is a human being and any one of us could - and probably would - be her in the same situation."

Apps' question to Donoghoe about an upcoming semi-final, despite Fiji still needing to secure a win to advance, also prompted discussion. Donoghoe responded by focusing on Fiji's next match, and Apps concluded the segment by wishing him well.

While some online commenters questioned the reporter's preparation, others acknowledged the potential for confusion caused by the jersey swap. "To be fair to Apps I know who Kurt is and was confused for a minute when he rocked up in a Roos jersey," one commenter noted.

Kearney also emphasized Apps's contributions beyond the interview, detailing her support for young journalists in Papua New Guinea through the Women in News and Sports program. "And that Aussie journo you are destroying was bending over backwards to support her PNG sisters (and brothers) in any way she could," he wrote. "Judge her for that. Then hang your heads."

Former professional rugby player and ABC Pacific presenter Sam Wykes corroborated Apps's generosity, recounting her encouraging words after the PNG-Samoa match. "First time meeting her, she didn't have to do that, and I can't tell how much it meant to me to hear someone of her calibre say that," Wykes stated.

Veteran sports announcer Glen Hawke defended Apps's handling of the exchange, characterizing it as composed and professional given the circumstances. "She went to open questions, let the player talk, kept it respectful and got the segment home," Hawke said. "When the brief falls over, that's exactly the right call."

Channel 7 has also issued a statement of support, with director of sport Chris Jones praising Apps's extensive experience and dedication. "Jelisa is one of Australia's leading rugby league reporters. Having covered the game for more than a decade, she knows the game, the clubs and the players better than anyone," Jones said. "We're incredibly proud to have Jelisa as part of Seven's Rugby League World Cup broadcast team and will be seeing her on many more big matches moving forward."