The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB)'s much-anticipated competition, The Hundred will finally commence in July 2020. The upcoming 100-ball cricket tournament will be the newest format to enter the game and the inaugural edition will include eight city-based franchise teams. It will be contested by both men’s and women’s teams, which will include local English players as well as overseas superstars. The draft for the inaugural edition was conducted on October 20.

Ben Stokes backs The Hundred

Also Read | Ind Vs SA: Ravichandran Ashwin Reveals Why He Stopped Watching Cricket

Ben Stokes, who was drafted into Northern Superchargers squad this Sunday, was full of praise for the upcoming tournament. The England superstar all-rounder gave his take on ‘The Hundred’ by saying that it will give young English players the fringes of 'big-game exposure'. By rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest names in cricket, the young players can make the most of this exposure at the international level.

Also Read | 'MS Dhoni Best White-ball Captain Of This Era', Says Michael Vaughan

Stokes says The Hundred can improve depth in English cricket

The 2019 World Cup-winning member also compared the upcoming event with the Indian Premier League. Stokes has vast experience of playing in front of Indian crowds as he represented teams like Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiant. Stokes, while praising the IPL, said that it’s a great tournament to be part of and The Hundred will become the same for the English domestic circuit. He continued that the upcoming event will be able to create an international level-like environment for the young players as it will unite some of the world’s biggest names with England team members. He also said that it will provide a great opportunity to improve the depth in English cricket.

Also Read | James Anderson Ruled Out Of The Ashes Series Due To A Calf Injury

Eoin Morgan on The Hundred

England ODI captain Eoin Morgan was also very perceptive about the 100-ball competition. He said that it has the potential to become one of the strongest tournaments around as the opportunities it will bring, are extraordinary. Morgan recently led the England team to their first-ever World Cup win by defeating New Zealand in a thrilling final at Lord's.

Also Read | Ashwin Hits Back After James Anderson Shreds His Picture Over 'Mankading' Row, Here's What He Said