BBC commentator Steve Wilson says what we're all thinking about hydration breaks during Czechia vs South Africa

BBC commentators Steve Wilson and Steve Warnock gave their no-nonsense thoughts on the second-half hydration break during Thursday's World Cup clash between Czechia and South Africa.

As part of FIFA's new approach to player welfare, three-minute hydration breaks are being used midway through each half at this summer's tournament.

Referees are told to stop the game in or around the 22nd and 67th minute, allowing players to rehydrate regardless of the temperature or weather conditions.

But the breaks have been widely condemned, with some critics suggesting underlying financial motives behind their introduction. US channels Fox and Fox Sports, for example, are expected to bring in $250 million (£188m) from the extra commercials, as per Front Office Sports.

ITV and the BBC, on the other hand, are using the breaks to discuss talking points from the game.

The subject continues to spark debate and, in the 68th minute of Thursday's game between Czechia and South Africa, BBC commentator Steve Wilson made his feelings abundantly clear on the matter.

"It's time for another needless hydration break," said Wilson, as a chorus of boos rang around the stadium. "And that's the reaction of the crowd to it. They don't want it. The players don't need it. We all know why it's here."

The referee blows her whistle to start the 68th minute hydration break. Image credit: BBC

Czech players during the hydration break. Image credit: BBC

Steve Warnock, the former Liverpool and Blackburn defender who was on co-commentary duty, also voiced his disapproval.

"I just wanted to say, Steve. Any football game that needs music in the interval... It's just unacceptable, isn't it?" he said. "It's just not good at all."

Wilson replied: "No. I can absolutely guarantee you that if Scandinavia ever host a World Cup, we will also have hydration breaks. I don't think they are going away. They are too lucrative."

Warnock, clearly repulsed by the thought of future hydration breaks in football, added: "They need to (go away). That's not the game we love."

Here's how fans on social media reacted to Wilson and Warnock's comments.

One said: "Steve Wilson saying what we all feel about the wretched faux hydration breaks @BBCSport and @StephenWarnock3 also vocal about unnecessary music played during the match Bravo!!!!!"

A second wrote: "Commentator from BBC called the hydration break worthless lmao. What a guy," and a third commented: "Booing in the stadium and Steve Wilson commentary calling out the hydration break."

Virgil van Dijk has given his thoughts on hydration breaks at World Cup

Several players and managers have spoken out against the introduction of the hydration breaks at this summer's World Cup, including Netherlands defender Virgil van Dijk.

Speaking to reporters at Dallas Stadium, he said: "I think hydration breaks are really interesting. I was obviously watching almost all of the games up until today. I think every time we go to commercials, it's not really something that I like.

"I think for the neutral viewers on TV it is also not great. So if it is really hot, it would be good to put them in, but I think you have to look at every game separately, in my opinion. But I think I have said enough already on that."