First XI

A nationwide search to unearth the best amateur football talent (aged 18 and above) began on Feb 4. Under the watchful eyes of Liverpool legend Steve McMahon, and ex-national player R.Sasikumar, the squad will be put through 3 months of grueling training, intense physical challenges, competitive matches and overseas training stints in Australia & Europe. Each week the weakest members of the squad will be eliminated, eventually reducing to sixteen players. The First XI and five reserves will then take on a professional team in a 'LIVE' Final match. First XI will feature the grit and drama of the players through 10-episodes as they try to outdo each other and earn their place in the team. Each episode will shift between the demands of training and the drama of the players coping with each other on and off the field. Friendships will be forged and fall-outs will be revealed. First XI Cheerleaders will also be part of the show to spice things up further. Expect guest appearances by current football stars, past football legends, football-mad local celebrities.

Host: Gurmit Singh, Jean Danker

Episodes: 9 x 60 mins + 2 x 70 mins

Languages: English

Production year: 2013