The Hundred returned to BBC screens this week, but many viewers were left unimpressed just minutes into the coverage. The professional cricket league uses a 100-ball format, with each match expected to last around two-and-a-half hours. The BBC usually airs matches, while all women's and some men's matches are also available free on Sky Sports' YouTube channel.
Tuesday's coverage and complaints
On Tuesday, July 21, the BBC aired live coverage of the MI London women's match against Sunrisers Leeds from The Kia Oval in London from 2.30pm to 6pm on BBC Two, followed by the men's match until 9.30pm. Isa Guha hosted alongside Alex Hartley. However, many viewers complained about poor sound quality and commentary.
One person wrote on X: "I see @thehundred are persisting with the (poor) idea that live music is a good addition to the experience. Poor sound quality, completely wrong crowd set up, rubbish vibes. Looks bad in-person and on TV." Another added: "#TheHundred some of the BBC commentary is awful." A third said: "Although less keen on this format, I was looking forward to watching the Hundred tonight but I forgot how irritating the incessant commentary/punditry is. Just wish they'd shut up. Also find the questions to players on field intrusive & distracting."
More viewer reactions
Someone else commented: "Come on @BBCSport we're watching @thehundred and it's very poor sound quality from the ground... not what we expect of the BBC at all." Another shared: "Watching The Hundred cricket. What an abomination! Why don't they show how many runs have been scored? Just shows runs read and balls left to bowl. And the graphics are rhubarb." A sixth viewer said: "Watching the Hundreds this evening. The camera work is atrocious. Two wickets which the camera failed to follow the ball. Typical BBC."
Positive reactions and new presenters
Meanwhile, others were delighted to see the tournament return with new presenters. World Cup winner Mark Wood has joined the BBC's punditry line-up alongside former India Test captain Ajinkya Rahane, ex-New Zealand international Katey Martin, and current England Test opener Emilio Gay. Coverage continues on Wednesday, July 22, with Southern Brave men and women taking on Welsh Fire in Southampton. One excited fan wrote: "So many exciting young talents to keep an eye on today. An absolutely packed day of The Hundred awaits."
