England's Roy says Hundred postponement a 'huge shame'
Last updated on: 01 May,2020 11:07 pm
Roy, a top-tier $157,000 pick by Oval Invincibles, understands the decision.
LONDON (AFP) - England batsman Jason Roy believes the coronavirus-enforced postponement of the Hundred is a missed opportunity for cricket to capitalise on the buzz from last year s World Cup triumph.
With a new tournament, a new format and new city-based franchises, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) was aiming to attract a fresh audience to the game.
England, with Roy in the side, defeated New Zealand last year in an unforgettable Lord s final that captivated the host country.
But COVID-19 has forced a year s delay, with the ECB keen to avoid empty grounds and absent overseas stars diluting the inaugural edition.
Roy, a top-tier $157,000 pick by Oval Invincibles, understands the decision.
"It s a huge shame that we won t be able get out in front of a home crowd again," he said. "It is hugely disappointing but there are bigger things at stake.
"Obviously there was a huge incentive for the ECB, it was a huge competition that they put a lot of money into but it s only right that it be delayed until next year.
"You want the best players coming over and at the moment they can t. Unfortunately that s just the way it is at the moment."