University Challenge: Viewers all had same complaint about new format with Amol Rajan

University Challenge viewers felt the new series with Amol Rajan was missing something very important - the question cards.

The BBC quiz show returned for its 53rd series on BBC Two for the first time since Jeremy Paxman retired as host.

Rajan, 40, could be seen reading questions from a large screen on the desk in front of him, twiddling a pen in his hands.

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With Paxman, 73, having been in the quizmaster's seat for 30 years, it was expected that Rajan would have tough act to follow.

But many viewers seemed to most miss the question cards that Paxman used to hold and famously throw down on the desk in exasperation when given a wrong answer.

One complained: "Just because we HAVE the technology…. should we use it? Bring back the question cards! #UniversityChallenge"

Another exclaimed: "What's this "no cards, wedgy i-Pad" nonsense? #UniversityChallenge"

Another asked: "Where are the question cards? I loved to see them skimming across the desk once answered #UniversityChallenge"

One viewer declared on Twitter: "Bring back the question cards! Grey Fablon(?) screen housing is hideous and Amol is looking down too much. Cards much more practical. And the host gets the dramatic ‘card toss’. #powerofprint #UniversityChallenge"

Another said: "New presenter Amol Rajan speaks too quickly, mumbles. Also he does not look at the contestants as he is reading off a computer screen. The question cards are essential. #UniversityChallenge"

And one claimed: "Bring back the question cards please. @amolrajan looks like he's in a language lab. He needs to be sitting higher too. #UniversityChallenge"

And another confessed: "Missing the question cards flying about after being read #Universitychallenge."

Rajan appeared to have taken note, tweeting: "Thanks so much for all the kind, thoughtful or constructive feedback about my first episode of #UniversityChallenge. I really appreciate it, and will discuss with the team."

The first episode of the pre-recorded general knowledge show saw Trinity College Cambridge take on Manchester University.

Viewers will have to wait to see if the question cards make a comeback later in the series.

Paxman took over hosting University Challenge in 1994, following on from Bamber Gasgoine, who was quizmaster from 1962 to 1987.

BBC journalist Rajan was announced as the new host in August 2022.

Read more: Jeremy Paxman stays true to self with understated good bye on University Challenge

Paxman revealed in 2021 he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.

Watch: Former University Challenge host Bamber Gascoigne dies aged 87