In a thrilling conclusion to the BBC's innovative talent search, Nahyan Chowdhury was announced as the winner of "The Last Pundit Standing". The 25-year-old Liverpool native fell to his knees in tears as Alex Scott called out his name at Wembley. This marked a significant milestone in Chowdhury's journey from being a full-time chemist to becoming BBC's next football expert.
"The Last Pundit Standing" is an audacious new initiative by the BBC aimed at discovering their next football pundit. From over 400 applicants, 12 content creators were selected for this unique show. Over seven episodes, these contestants faced challenges set by some of the biggest names in football and staged at iconic locations associated with the sport.
Chowdhury’s journey was nothing short of remarkable. From hitting woodwork during a crossbar challenge at Goodison Park in episode one, he consistently demonstrated his skills and knowledge about football throughout each task. Points were awarded for each challenge, leading up to an intense semi-final where only four contestants remained. Ultimately, it was Chowdhury who emerged victorious after going head-to-head with Toby Addison on FA Cup final day.
Final challenge
The final task required both finalists - who had won two challenges each prior - to create a bespoke 60-second social media video centered around the FA Cup final. It was this challenge that saw Chowdhury edge ahead and secure his victory. Addison graciously acknowledged Chowdhury’s win saying: "He comes in week one at Goodison and hits the crossbar. It was destined."
Nahyan Chowdhury, BBC’s show winner, said:
"I'm excited, get me in and get straight going. I wanted to get in there straight away and make an impact and prove I am a worthy winner.
"I had no idea I'd be in this position. If you asked me a year ago and you said you would be making content and be on a TV show, I'd have said 'no chance'. I never thought about it because you just don't see people like me doing that kind of thing. I am so lucky I have been thrown into this position.
"I've done it, I've proved to myself that I can do it and I'm going to prove to everyone else that I am a worthy winner. It's not the end, it's just the beginning. I am the last pundit standing."
With this win under his belt, Nahyan Chowdhury has secured himself a contract with BBC Sport and will begin working from August 12. This victory not only marks the end of an exciting competition but also the beginning of a promising career for Chowdhury as a football pundit.
"The Last Pundit Standing" has proven to be an innovative platform for discovering new talent in sports commentary. It has provided an opportunity for individuals like Nahyan Chowdhury to showcase their passion and knowledge about football, ultimately leading them to a dream job in sports broadcasting.
