Ed Sheeran, Tom Jones To Play AFL Grand Final

UK singers Sir Tom Jones and Ed Sheeran will perform at the AFL Grand Final this year, ending a run of local talent dominating one of the country's biggest sporting events.

The AFL have this morning confirmed the deal to have 74-year-old Welsh-born Jones, and English 23-year-old Sheeran as part of the entertainment.

Olivia Newtown-John will sing the national anthem and local singer/songwriter Mike Brady will sing a new version of Up There Cazaly.

Australian acts had made up the live music program for the final since 2011's controversial performance by Meat Loaf. Birds Of Tokyo and Hunters & Collectors played last year, while Tim Rogers, Paul Kelly and The Temper Trap had played the 2012 event.

FIVE UNFORGETTABLE GRAND FINAL MUSICAL PERFORMANCES

“Having spent some time in Australia recently I know just how popular the game is and how big an event this will be,” Sheeran said.

“It wasn’t a hard decision to agree to perform on such a big stage for the biggest sport in Australia. I’m excited to play in front of so many people with someone as iconic as Sir Tom and I’m also really looking forward to seeing what will be an amazing game.”

Jones added, “I understand there will be over 100,000 people in the stadium for the Grand Final which makes this spectacular sporting event something I’m really looking forward to.

“I also know that Australian football has really passionate fans so it’ll be great to be a part of the atmosphere and excitement on the day.”

The event was once again booked by Mushroom Group boss Michael Gudinski who said, “We have managed to secure not one, but two International artists this year, both with a string of hits - it’s a great combination of music for all generations.

“Sir Tom Jones has been entertaining audiences since the early sixties, with 17 number one singles to his name, more than 100 million albums sales and countless sold-out tours. He is a true music icon.

“Ed Sheeran, in comparison, is a newcomer but he’s making big waves in the music business, with two number one albums already under his belt in just three years. He is one of the brightest stars on the music scene at the moment.”

Following the game Sheeran and Jones will both play The Premiership Party, which will see the MCG grounds opened up to fans free of charge.

The 2014 final will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground Saturday 27 September and will be broadcast on Channel 7.

Story updated 1pm