The cricketing world has been left stunned by a shocking incident during a match of The Hundred. In a live television interview, former reality show, Love Island, contestant Chris Hughes, who was working as a presenter, made a shocking remark while interacting with Australian cricketer Maitlan Brown. Hughes referred to Brown as a 'Barbie' in the on-air comment made during a particular match of the 100-ball franchise tournament in England and Wales.
While Brown mentioned how her team Southern Brave participated in a team bonding activity as they watched the screening of the movie Barbie together, things took an awkward turn when Hughes said that Brown was a Barbie herself which prompted an uncomfortable laugh from the cricketer.
"You're a little Barbie yourself innit with your blue eyes," Chris Hughes said. This wasn't it as Hughes than went on to proclaim on television that Brown was blushing after his comment.
The turn of events have led netizens to criticize Hughes.
"So much great young journalistic cricket talent in the UK, and you hire that clown @chrishughes_22, because demographics, innit," a Twitter user wrote.
"Chris Hughes taking a leaf from Chris Gayle's interviewing technique. Clearly didn't get the memo from the film. Have complained to the BBC #Barbie #TheHundred #BBCcricket," another user said.
"Did Chris Hughes really say to Maitlan Brown, “You’re a little Barbie yourself, with your blue eyes.”? I am speechless. I was cringing for her. Lesser people would have smacked him in the chops. Imagine telling Ben Stokes he looks like Ken?!" another social media user shared.
The interview is being compared to the infamous Chris Gayle interview with Mel McLaughlin where the West Indian cricket had asked the reporter for a drink during live broadcast. The batting star had also remarked: "Don't blush, baby" a conversation which led to him being fined and slammed. The Gayle incident took place in 2016 when he was plying his trade for Melbourne Renegades in Australia's Big Bash League (BBL).