'Watch the movie in theatre before criticizing it' - Ravi Ashwin defends The Hundred amid criticism

India’s ace spinner Ravi Ashwin is currently in England gearing up for India’s mega Test clash against the home side. Recently, the great spinner came up in support of ECB’s new 100-ball format The Hundred which is currently being played in England. Many stated that The Hundred isn’t maintaining the quality of cricket and cannot be considered as a fine format.

In the same light, Ashwin added that people are being unnecessarily critical of the new format even without having any idea of its rules and system. It is a form of franchise cricket where 100 balls are bowled per side and is formatted for 10 balls per over. The Indian spinner said that one should not criticize anything without knowing it fully. The tournament kicked off on July 21 with a women’s game taking place between Manchester Originals and Oval Invincibles.

“Those who did not understand this format commented vaguely about frequent changes in rules and formats. To many, innovation is not encouraged and is often misunderstood. When someone films a movie, we should watch it in the theatre and then criticize it. Making irrelevant comments even before going to the theatre does not work. We should appreciate the attempt and give credit to it,” said Ashwin on his YouTube channel.

I’d be glad if women’s IPL is all set to happen: Ravi Ashwin

Ashwin also told on his channel that he watched the initial few matches of The Hundred as he was quite impressed with the quality of cricket women are bringing to the table. He even added that it would be great if women’s IPL is also played in near future.

“I watched a women’s game between Oval Invincibles and Manchester Originals. Though names were different, the game was outstanding, and women’s cricket is here to stay. I’d be glad if women’s IPL is all set to happen,” Ashwin added.

Many believe that The Hundred can degrade the quality of a cricketer but Ashwin thinks otherwise and even feels that the new format is enjoyable and can be called as the ‘sporting festival season.’