TV host steps down from BBC election debate between Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer as replacement revealed
SOPHIE Raworth has asked to step down as the host of the debate after fracturing her ankle, so Mishal Husain will now take on the role.
Sophie will continue to present BBC News bulletins and will still present the second day of the BBC’s general election night coverage.
Sophie Raworth says: "The injury I picked up at the London marathon has now been diagnosed as a fracture in my ankle.
"I was only told this last week during the D-Day commemorations.
"I’m now on crutches, in a boot and non-weight-bearing for some time.
"Mishal Husain is a fantastic presenter and will be brilliant at moderating what is a really important debate for both the two leaders and the BBC.
"I’m delighted she is doing it."
Mishal Husain says: "Sophie has been remarkable in the pace and the way she’s worked in recent weeks, despite her injury.
"I can’t see myself ever stepping into her running shoes but she can count on me for this, as the two prime ministerial candidates face each other for their last television encounter."