Yorkshire racism case: ECB charges club & 'number of individuals' with bringing game into disrepute

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Former England batter Gary Ballance should be fined £8,000 and banned for eight weeks for using racist language at Yorkshire, according to the England and Wales Cricket Board.

Ballance is one of six former Yorkshire players found to have use racist slurs at the club by the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) panel in March.

The charges stemmed from claims made by former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq.

Ballance, who retired earlier this month, admitted the charge against him.

The ECB also recommended a combination of fines, suspensions, reprimands and education courses for former England bowlers Tim Bresnan and Matthew Hoggard, former Yorkshire captain and coach Andrew Gale, former Scotland bowler John Blain and former Yorkshire all-rounder Richard Pyrah.

All five withdrew from the process and did not appear before the independent CDC panel in March.

At a hearing in London on Wednesday, CDC panel chair Tim O'Gorman said a decision on sanctions for the six former players will not be made for "several weeks".

Former England captain Michael Vaughan was cleared "on the balance of probabilities" by the panel of using racist language towards Rafiq.

Sanctions against Yorkshire, who admitted four amended charges, will be discussed at a hearing in late June.

The ECB said Ballance's fine should be reduced from £12,500 and the suspension reduced from 10 weeks because he admitted guilt and apologised to Rafiq.

It said Ballance, 33, should also go on an education course and be reprimanded.

Ballance's lawyer Craig Harris said the financial penalty should be reduced because being involved in the proceedings led to the end Ballance's Yorkshire career, the loss of a sponsorship contract and him not being considered for England.

Ballance was released by Yorkshire at his request in December and switched to play for his native Zimbabwe, initially signing a two-year deal, before announcing his retirement four months later.

In 2020, he took a break from cricket to manage "some heightened feelings of anxiety and stress" and missed much of the 2022 season to focus on his mental health after admitting he was responsible for some of the allegations made by Rafiq.

ECB lawyer Jane Mulcahy KC said: "We understand there has been a significant impact on Mr Ballance's mental health."

Ballance did not take part in the proceedings in March after admitting his charge.

The ECB said Hoggard should be handed a £7,500 fine - reduced from £9,000 because he admitted part of the charge against him - and a reprimand. It also issued a "strong recommendation" he undertake an education course at his own expense, particularly if he intends to return to cricket.

The ECB added it would have sought a suspension if Hoggard, who retired in 2013, was still playing cricket.

The panel found that 2005 Ashes winner Hoggard, who denied racist intent to his language, had used two racist slurs but found an allegation he used the term "you lot" about Asian players not proved.

The ECB recommended Bresnan and Blain both be given a £5,000 fine, be reprimanded and attend an education course at their own expense, especially if they intend to return to cricket.

Bresnan, who denied all the allegations, was found to have used a racial slur towards Rafiq's sister and other Asian women. Allegations he used the terms "brothers" and "you lot" to specifically refer to Asian players were not proved.

Blain was found to have used a racist phrase to describe Asian individuals during his time as a Yorkshire coach, which he denied.

The ECB recommended Gale be given a £7,500 fine, a reprimand and a four-week suspension if he were to return to coaching ECB-regulated cricket. It also said he should do an education course at his own expense if he returned to cricket.

Gale was found to have used two racist slurs towards Rafiq throughout his time at the club, as well as using one of these racist terms towards Mosun Hussain, a Yorkshire academy player, in 2013. He denied the allegations.

Pyrah's recommended fine is £4,000. He was found to have used a racial slur towards Rafiq's sister, which he denied.

An allegation Pyrah used the term "you lot" towards groups of Asian players was not proved.

BBC

 

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The independent Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) has today published its sanction decisions in relation to six former Yorkshire County Cricket Club players and coaches.

The sanctions follow a CDC Panel disciplinary hearing, held from 1 to 7 March, when five individuals – John Blain, Tim Bresnan, Andrew Gale, Matthew Hoggard and Richard Pyrah - were found to have breached ECB Directive 3.3 for their alleged use of racist and/or discriminatory language.

Additionally, Gary Ballance had already admitted to breaches of that same Directive. The CDC Panel then heard submissions on sanction at a further hearing on 3 May 2023.

The sanctions for each of the six individuals are outlined below (in alphabetical order) with the full written reasons available to view, here.

Gary Ballance – a six-match playing suspension (to take effect if he returns to ECB-regulated cricket as a player) and a £3,000 fine. Mr Ballance is also formally reprimanded, together with a strong CDC recommendation to undertake an appropriate racism/discrimination education course identified by the ECB, at his own expense, particularly if he intends to return to cricket in any playing or coaching capacity.

John Blain – a £2,500 fine. Mr Blain is also formally reprimanded, together with a strong CDC recommendation to undertake an appropriate racism/discrimination education course identified by the ECB, at his own expense, particularly if he intends to return to cricket in any playing or coaching capacity.

Tim Bresnan – a three-match playing suspension (to take effect if he returns to ECB-regulated cricket as a player) and a £4,000 fine. Mr Bresnan is also formally reprimanded, together with a strong CDC recommendation to undertake an appropriate racism/discrimination education course identified by the ECB, at his own expense, particularly if he intends to return to cricket in any playing or coaching capacity.

Andrew Gale – a four-week suspension from coaching cricket (to take effect if he returns to ECB-regulated cricket as a coach) and a £6,000 fine. Mr Gale is also formally reprimanded, together with a strong CDC recommendation to undertake an appropriate racism/discrimination education course identified by the ECB, at his own expense, particularly if he intends to return to cricket in any playing or coaching capacity.

Matthew Hoggard - a £4,000 fine. Mr Hoggard is also formally reprimanded, together with a strong CDC recommendation to undertake an appropriate racism/discrimination education course identified by the ECB, at his own expense, particularly if he intends to return to cricket in any playing or coaching capacity.

Richard Pyrah – a two-week suspension from coaching cricket (to take effect if he returns to ECB-regulated cricket as a coach) and a £2,500 fine. Mr Pyrah is also formally reprimanded, together with a strong CDC recommendation to undertake an appropriate racism/discrimination education course identified by the ECB, at his own expense, particularly if he intends to return to cricket in any playing or coaching capacity.

The sanctioned individuals are able to appeal the decisions before the end of business on Friday 9 June 2023.
The CDC has also confirmed that the sanction hearing for Yorkshire County Cricket Club, which has admitted four breaches of ECB Directive 3.3, will be held on Tuesday 27 June 2023.

These CDC sanction decisions have been made by an independent panel consisting of Tim O’Gorman (Chair of the CDC), Mark Milliken-Smith KC and Dr Seema Patel.

 

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Colin Graves says he never witnessed racism at Yorkshire during his time at the club and claims they are now at risk of administration after withdrawing his offer to return as chairman.

The founder of Costcutter was the executive chairman of Yorkshire between 2012 and 2015, after he helped save the club from financial trouble in 2002.

Graves was keen on returning as Yorkshire chair but last week withdrew his application and criticised the length of time it has taken for the club to name a successor to Lord Patel, who stepped down in March.

His first stint as chairman overlapped with Azeem Rafiq's spell at the club, a period in which the club have now admitted they failed to address the systemic use of racist and or discriminatory language.

Yorkshire have admitted to four amended charges related to the Rafiq racism investigation and will find out what sanctions they will face on June 27.

"I came to YCCC to do a job which I believe that I did - one of which was to address the institutional racism and discrimination that had taken place.

"We should not forget that when I arrived on November 5 2021 - YCCC had lost the majority, if not all its sponsors; the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) said that racism alleged to have taken place at YCCC was probably unlawful and threatened legal action if appropriate steps were not taken by the club to address discrimination; the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had removed the right for YCCC to host any major and international matches; the only funds it had in the bank were advanced ticket sales for the two forthcoming international matches which had been withdrawn - so those funds would have to be returned. It had no governance structure and no effective leadership in place."

Graves, though, says racism allegations were never brought to him during his time as chairman.

"When I was chairman of the club, when some of these allegations were made, I can tell you now, nothing was brought up within the club," Graves told Sky Sports News.

"And I ran the club on an open-door basis as chairman, players could come and see me if they had issues and they did so on a regular basis. I met the players twice a year, took them out for dinner, met them around the ground, knew a lot of the families.

"We had management meetings in the club every Monday we had board meetings every six weeks. Nothing was ever brought up on the table about any racism allegations whatsoever.

"There was nothing at all and people like, and this is again which I find very frustrating and disappointing, people like [former director of cricket] Martyn Moxon have been castigated, lost their jobs, lost their careers as part of these allegations.

"Martyn Moxon hasn't got a racist bone in his body. Martyn Moxon, people forget, was the person who brought Azeem Rafiq back to the club. He gave him a new contract, he gave him a second chance. If Martyn had been racist, why did he do that?"

Asked specifically if he had ever witnessed racism during his time at Yorkshire, Graves replied: "None whatsoever, from anybody at any level. Nothing."

Rafiq alleged in September 2020 that he had been a victim of institutional racism during his two spells at Yorkshire between 2008 and 2018.

In November 2021, former Yorkshire chair Roger Hutton told a DCMS hearing he "feared" the club fell under the definition for being institutionally racist.

Graves, however, says he does not believe there was institutional racism at Yorkshire during his time in charge.

"I think institutional racism I believe is the wrong word. I think there's been odd occasions where words have been said that people may regret afterwards," Graves said.

"I don't think it was done on a racist, savage basis. I think there was a lot of - I know people don't like the word banter - but I think there could have been a lot of banter in there about it, and I know people don't like that.

"But when you play cricket and you're part of cricket teams, and you're in cricket dressing rooms, that's what happened in the past.

"But the world has changed, society's changed it's not acceptable, I understand that, I accept it, full stop.

"But I don't believe it's institutional racism in Yorkshire…If people can prove it fine, but I don't think it is institutionally racist as an organisation. I just don't see it."

File photo dated 15-09-2019 of Colin Graves who is keen to make a comeback as Yorkshire chair but has made it clear any return "will be on my terms". Issue date: Friday January 13, 2023.

The Board of Yorkshire County Cricket Club said: "We note Colin's position that he was not aware of, or witness to, any racism at Yorkshire and that there existed only "banter". As a Board, we maintain that we needed to accept and take responsibility for the cultural issues which allowed racist and discriminatory behaviour to go unchallenged, and we have accepted four amended charges from the Cricket Discipline Commission.

"We remain entirely focused on securing the short- and long-term future of Yorkshire County Cricket Club and making it a welcoming club for everyone".

A statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board read: "We are disappointed to see the comments made by Colin Graves on the historical racist issues at Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

"We must never again hear of accounts like Azeem Rafiq's, where racist slurs are used as part of normalised everyday language.

"These events, along with many issues experienced by Azeem and others during their time at Yorkshire have been upheld more than once, including during proceedings overseen by the Cricket Discipline Committee.

"We vehemently disagree that this is 'just banter' and believe that any debate in that regard should stop immediately. Racism isn't banter.

"Yorkshire is of huge importance to cricket in England and Wales with a deep history and an ability to inspire and connect all cricket fans.

"They are currently working hard to resolve their financial and cultural challenges and the club, and its new management, have our full support.''

The Rafiq racism scandal has hit Yorkshire hard financially with the club incurring £3.5m costs in exceptional expenditure over the past two years.

Yorkshire made a £2.2m loss in their 2022 accounts and chief executive Stephen Vaughan highlighted a £3.5m cash shortfall arising later this year.

Yorkshire also owe Graves' family trust - which is managed by independent trustees - nearly £15m following his bailout of the club in 2002 and that is due to be repaid in full in the autumn of 2024.

Graves says he was ready to negotiate an extension on that payment had he returned as chair and was also prepared to become a guarantor in "the worst scenario" to help the club's financial footing.

"The first thing I would do I would talk to that trust and the trustees to virtually try and get firstly a three-year extension on that, so it gives us breathing space to make sure we can make the right decisions, bring the new investment in which is required," said Graves, who was also chair of the ECB from 2015 until 2020.

"From what I gather the trustees and the family trust have no problem of exiting as and when that time is right. And that's virtually what I would do.

"As far as I know [Yorkshire] are going to run out of liquid cash in September time. So from that proposal, they are putting around they are wanting £5m cash injection on top of the £15m owed to the trust. So they are looking for £20m.

"If [a buyer or investor] doesn't [come in], presumably the only way forward for them is to go into administration.

"And when that happens, and I hope it doesn't happen that'd be the worst thing that could happen, if they go into administration, then the administrator will have to talk to the trustees of the trust because the trust has got first legal charge over the ground."

The Board of Yorkshire County Cricket Club said: "The financial security of Yorkshire County Cricket Club is our number one priority and we are continuing many positive conversations around investment from various sources. Our guiding principle is that Yorkshire will remain a members' co-operative, as it has been for 160 years. The club is not for sale and we have turned down several offers to buy the club outright."

After Graves announced his withdrawal from the application process to be chair, Yorkshire said at "no point" had the 74-year-old had made "a clearly defined, tangible offer that the board was able to consider formally".

Graves said: "It's not correct, because basically, I didn't make an offer to buy the club. I could have bought the club many times over the last 20 years. And I've never wanted to buy the club because it's a members' club and I believe Yorkshire County Cricket Club should stay that way as a members' club.

"So, I didn't make an offer to buy the club and purchase it from the members. What I did do is I put in writing to them on two occasions, one in February and one two weeks ago, of what my proposal was for the club to trade out of its present situation with investors behind me who would look at bringing fresh money into the club and to trade our way out of it to get it back on an even keel.

"They've had that in writing twice, but it is not an offer to buy the club."

Graves also wanted total control of Yorkshire's board and executive.

"Anybody who goes in there whether you buy the club or you go in as an investor, you are going to want some kind of control of who runs the club and who's there as the executive. And that's what I said that I don't want a board around me who's going to make life difficult in making difficult decisions going forward.

"Because there are going to be some difficult decisions to make in that club. Because they are going to run out of money, and from my point of view, that's where you need total control.

"The big thing that you do need with independent directors is you need some independent directors with cricket experience. Yorkshire haven't got that. They've got 10 independent directors, none of them have worked in cricket, none of them have played cricket, none of them have run grounds. They don't understand what cricket is all about.

"So that's why I said I want total control of the board and the executive to make sure we make the right decisions at the right time for the good of Yorkshire County Cricket Club as a members' club."

He added: "At one stage it used to have a massive membership, that membership has dropped and dropped and dropped. But the members are very, very loyal in Yorkshire they're passionate about their cricket, and they have been and always will be.

"And I don't think the members have been treated properly over the last two or three years. The way things have changed, the decisions that have been made, really I don't think have been made in the best interest of the members and the members' club. And I think they've been ignored and I think the members deserve for it to stay as a members' club but to be run on behalf of the members."

Graves was also critical of decisions made by Lord Patel during his time as chair of Yorkshire.

Graves said: "He came in to do a job, he's done that job.

"Decisions have been made. I think some bad decisions have been made. I'm not going to go into them, that's personally, it's history, I can't change it anyway.

"But I think those decisions have now created where Yorkshire is today with, you know, £3.5m loss on last year's P&L shortage of cash going forward.

"People, you look at the standard of cricket now that we've got in there, we're struggling. Players have left. Sponsors have left. I think bad decisions were made but it's history."

The Board of Yorkshire County Cricket Club said: "We reiterate that at no point did Colin Graves make a clearly defined, tangible offer that the Board was able to consider formally, unlike other interested parties involved in the refinance process. His proposals include securing an extension on repayment of loans from the Graves Trusts, which he also says he has no control over, and working with a number of investors to get the club back on an even keel. This is not a refinancing solution that we can stand behind or would pass any financial rigour.

"Furthermore, Colin's stipulation that he would require full control of the Board and Executive in the event of returning to the club as chair runs contrary to best practice governance requirements set out in the County Governance Code which were agreed by all counties in 2019."

SKY

 

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">ECB statement in response to Colin Graves' interview with Sky Sports News <a href="https://t.co/jX5nKhwg9a">pic.twitter.com/jX5nKhwg9a</a></p>— England and Wales Cricket Board (@ECB_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECB_cricket/status/1668171937388851200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

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The Yorkshire County Cricket Club today announces that Harry Chathli has been nominated to join its Board as a Non-Executive Director with a view to becoming the Club’s new permanent Chair.

The proposal is subject to ratification from Members at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on a date to be confirmed.

Harry is a lifelong cricket fan having started playing cricket over 50 years ago, and is a former club cricketer at various clubs in South East London. He has a passion for the future of the County game having observed significant development in the pathway programmes at Surrey County Cricket Club over the past decade as his son and daughter played through the various county age groups. His daughter, Kira, is a professional cricketer for Surrey County Cricket Club, the South East Stars and was part of The Hundred-winning Oval Invincibles team alongside Yorkshire legend Lauren Winfield-Hill in the 2022 final.

Harry is a highly regarded business leader, and an experienced international capital markets expert with a 25-year track record of advising global companies, organisations and government agencies. Harry also has significant board experience and is Chairman and Non-Executive Director of several public and private companies. He has also founded two successful communications agencies: Corfin Public Relations in 2004 (acquired by Luther Pendragon in 2011), and the Gracechurch Group from 2019, where he serves as Owner, Director. He also previously worked at communications agency, Brunswick, as well as in the International Division of the Adam Smith Institute as an international policy advisor.

The YCCC Board worked with a leading international executive search firm, Perrett Laver, to conduct a fair, thorough and robust recruitment process to identify an appropriate candidate, with the process open to both internal and external applicants.

Working alongside the experienced Board including current interim Chair Baroness Tanni-Grey Thompson, and CEO Stephen Vaughan, the new Chair’s focus will be to continue the Club’s transformational culture change, oversee significant governance reforms, develop new commercial and partnership opportunities and ensure a robust financial footing for the Club.

Once appointed, Harry will succeed Lord Kamlesh Patel who stepped down at the Club’s Annual General Meeting in March 2023. Baroness Grey-Thompson has served as interim Chair to ensure a seamless transition while the appointment process was ongoing.

The Club continues to be involved in positive conversations around the long-term financial future of the Club and hopes to make an announcement relating to this in due course.

Harry Chathli said:

“I am delighted and truly privileged to have the Board’s support as their nominee to become the Chair of Yorkshire County Cricket Club. This is one of the most iconic clubs in the cricketing world and, as with all English cricket fans, Headingley has always held a special place in my heart. I have seen the positive steps taken over the past year by YCCC and I believe Yorkshire has turned the corner – I’ve heard this from the business people I have spoken to over the past few months and from well-known international cricketers. It’s because of this that I jumped at the chance to get fully involved with this prestigious Club.

“The Club has been through a difficult period. I would like to bring the focus back to cricket and excellence on the pitch, as the Club continues to learn from the many issues it has faced. I believe cricket excellence is built on two things: inclusivity and financial stability. YCCC needs to represent the Yorkshire of today and tap into all the extraordinary talent at its disposal and we need to have the proper funding to do this. We have a lot of work to do, but I have been impressed by the determination and resilience the Club has shown and am ready to work with the Board and management to do everything I can to get the Club back to where it should be.”

Tanni Grey-Thompson, interim Chair of Yorkshire County Cricket Club, said:

“Through a combination of commercial acumen and a genuine love for cricket, Harry is the ideal person to continue to drive the Club’s recovery. It has been an honour to serve in the role of interim Chair as we have sought a replacement – I am looking forward to working with Harry on the transition and supporting him in my role as a Non-Executive Director over the coming years.”

Stephen Vaughan, Chief Executive Officer of Yorkshire County Cricket Club, said:

“Harry was the outstanding candidate in a very strong field and his passion for the game and vision for an inclusive future stood out to the whole Board. His corporate and commercial experience will be vitally important as we look to secure the future health of the Club, at the same time as reaffirming our commitment to deliver positive changes in line with the values and standards we have established as a Board. We are determined to deliver long-term success and to build on the work we have done collectively to address the many challenges we have faced together to make Yorkshire County Cricket Club a thriving and welcoming place for all. We look forward to Harry having the opportunity to meet with Members ahead of the EGM and can’t wait to welcome him to the Yorkshire family.”

On Tanni Grey-Thompson

“We continue to be incredibly grateful to Tanni for stepping in as interim Chair since March, and for the huge amount of hard work she has put in on behalf of the Club. The Board wishes to put on record its thanks to her at what has been an immensely busy time.”

https://yorkshireccc.com/news/harry...e-new-chair-of-yorkshire-county-cricket-club/

 

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ECB responds to ICEC report on equity in cricket, which finds evidence of discrimination across the game

The Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) finds cricket’s structures and systems have failed to prevent discrimination

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has today publicly apologised and acknowledged that more action is required to tackle discrimination in the sport

Reforms will be agreed within three months, working with representatives from across cricket to agree a plan of action, in line with the ICEC’s recommended timelines

Today, the ICEC has published its report into the state of equity in cricket, which has found that structural and institutional racism, sexism and class-based discrimination continue to exist across the game.

The ICEC calls for decisive action to tackle discrimination, remove barriers and reform the game to make cricket more inclusive. The findings and recommendations were delivered to the ECB, which commissioned the report in November 2020 as part of its Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) work to make cricket more representative and to address allegations of discrimination.

The ECB today apologises unreservedly for the experiences of those who have faced discrimination in cricket.

In response to the report, Richard Thompson, ECB Chair, said:

“On behalf of the ECB and wider leadership of the game, I apologise unreservedly to anyone who has ever been excluded from cricket or made to feel like they don’t belong. Cricket should be a game for everyone, and we know that this has not always been the case. Powerful conclusions within the report also highlight that for too long women and Black people were neglected. We are truly sorry for this.

“This report makes clear that historic structures and systems have failed to prevent discrimination, and highlights the pain and exclusion this has caused. I am determined that this wake-up call for cricket in England and Wales should not be wasted. We will use this moment to demonstrate that it is a game for all and we have a duty to put this right for current and future generations.

“I would like to thank Cindy Butts, the Commissioners and her wider team at the ICEC for their hard work, commitment and focus in bringing these issues to our attention. I also want to acknowledge the courage of those who have shared their experiences with them, whilst recognising there will be many more who felt unable to give their accounts.

“As recommended by the ICEC, we will use the next three months to work with the whole game to build a plan of action which we will then publish. My absolute commitment is for cricket to strive to be the most inclusive sport in England and Wales.”

Richard Thompson’s open letter to Cindy Butts can be read in full below.

Response to Recommendations

Since the ICEC was established, considerable work has been under way across cricket to make the game more inclusive – including the ECB funding the expansion of the ACE Programme for young Black cricketers and increased provision of cricket in state schools where high numbers are on free school meals. There has also been a significant increase in female and ethnically diverse representation in governance across cricket. Today’s report acknowledges that progress has been made and that there have been significant improvements to the ECB and sections of the wider game’s approach since 2018. This work will continue, however the report makes clear that much more needs to be done.

As recommended by the ICEC, the ECB will use the next three months to consider the findings and 44 recommendations – many containing a number of sub-recommendations - of the final report in detail. Some reforms can be implemented swiftly. Others are achievable under the current framework of cricket but will require time and investment over the coming months and years. And some will require fundamental, longer-term changes to cricket in England and Wales, and its funding model.

The recommendations will be discussed with those involved in professional and recreational cricket. This consultation process will be led by Clare Connor, ECB Deputy Chief Executive Officer, with the support of a sub-group of the ECB Board including Baroness Zahida Manzoor, Pete Ackerley, Ebony Rainford-Brent, Sir Ron Kalifa, Richard Thompson and Richard Gould.

Richard Gould, ECB Chief Executive Officer, said:

“The ECB has recently been working to lay the foundations of change, but today’s report makes it clear that the sport, including the ECB as governing body, needs to go further and faster in our efforts.

“Making cricket more inclusive and reflective of the communities it serves is my number one priority. This cannot and will not be a quick fix. We are committed to taking the time to work with everyone in the sport, and especially with leaders of cricket’s clubs and institutions, to put in place reforms that are wide-ranging, long-term and meaningful. We should view this as a once in a generation opportunity to restore trust in the game we love.

“It is welcome to see the report’s assessment that there are green shoots of progress, and of significant improvements in the approach towards these issues since 2018, but this must only serve to strengthen our determination to go further and address the issues which remain. I also share the commission’s thanks to the many people involved in cricket across England and Wales who are already deeply committed to improving equity in our game. They will be crucial to making sure that in the years ahead we really can say cricket is a game for everyone.”

ends

A video statement from Richard Thompson is available to download here

Letter from Richard Thompson to Cindy Butts

Dear Cindy,

I am writing to you to formally acknowledge receipt of the ICEC’s report into racism, sexism and class-based discrimination in cricket, on behalf of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

While this report makes for deeply uncomfortable reading for all of those who love the game of cricket, we wish to thank you and your fellow Commissioners for the rigour of your report, and for holding up an unfiltered mirror to all cricket in England and Wales. We were clear when the ICEC was established two years ago by the ECB, that we wanted independent and expert analysis of the issues of inequity affecting our game, in order to move beyond these issues, collectively and definitively.

The findings of your report, based on over 4,000 contributions from those involved in cricket at all levels, speak for themselves. Cricket should never exclude anyone on the basis of their ethnicity, gender or social background. We apologise unreservedly for these experiences, and are thankful for the courage of those who have shared them with the ICEC, whilst recognising there will be many more who felt unable to give their accounts.

Your report spells out the stark need to address discrimination across cricket, recognising the pain and exclusion this has caused. I am determined that this wake-up call for cricket in England and Wales must not be wasted. It is our job to demonstrate that it is a game for all and we have a duty to put this right for current and future generations.

We will use this moment to reset cricket. This cannot and will not be a quick fix – we must take the time to put in place meaningful structural reforms. As your report rightly points out, cricket has been here before. This time our response will be different. Our response must be wide-ranging and long-term.

Your report recognises some of the work that has happened to lay the foundations of change. I welcome your assessment that green shoots are emerging and that there have been significant improvements in the ECB and sections of the wider game’s approach in recent years. Let me assure you that this only serves to strengthen my determination to accelerate and intensify this work. We now need to reflect on the Commission’s recommendations. It is clear we need to go further, and faster in our efforts. Those changes must make sure the game is more equitable, diverse and inclusive. As recommended by the ICEC, our first step will be to use the next three months to work with the whole game to build a plan of action. This will take the form of a consultation, which will listen to and engage with the communities whose stories this report has highlighted. Across a series of workshops, the ECB will seek feedback from the game, before scoping and refining responses to the ICEC’s recommendations.

Some reforms can be implemented swiftly. Others are achievable under the current framework of cricket but will require time and investment over the coming months and years. And some will require fundamental, longer-term changes of the game and its funding model.

This consultation process will be led by Clare Connor, Deputy CEO, with the support of a sub-group of the Board including Baroness Zahida Manzoor, Pete Ackerley, Ebony Rainford-Brent, Sir Ron Kalifa, Richard Gould and myself.

When at its best, cricket has the potential to be a force for good, to bring together generations and communities and change lives for the better. We see this in the positive impacts and major contributions of the many good people and groups who work hard to bring cricket to more people in their communities. I note that your report recognises the fact that many people are already deeply committed to improving equity in cricket, and I thank you for that. Their valuable work must continue, with our support, and they will play a fundamental role in delivering the changes which cricket will make. Only by being as inclusive as possible will we continue to grow the interest and participation in the sport we love.

Our absolute commitment is for cricket to strive to be the most inclusive sport in England and Wales.

Cindy, I want to close by thanking you and your fellow Commissioners, Sir Brendan Barber, Zafar Ansari, Michelle Moore and Michael Collins, and your secretariat, for your hard work, commitment and focus in bringing these issues to our attention. I look forward to updating you on the action plan we will build and commit to transparency about our progress in the months and years ahead.

In the spirit of full openness, we will be publishing this letter alongside our public response when your report is published on Tuesday.

Yours sincerely,

Richard Thompson

Chair

England and Wales Cricket Board

 

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The Board of Yorkshire County Cricket Club said:

"Tomorrow’s Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) sanctions hearing marks the near culmination of a chapter that has weighed heavily on Yorkshire County Cricket Club for close to two years. It also coincides with the publication of the long-awaited Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) report into the wider state of the game.

“Racism and discrimination in any form is unacceptable and, as a Board, we have been clear on the need to take accountability for the historical cultural issues that allowed racist and discriminatory behaviour to go unchallenged at the Club. The acceptance of four amended charges brought by the CDC was part of a continued effort to acknowledge what happened in the past so we can learn and move forward.

“In making representations to the CDC panel, we hope to achieve a reasonable sanction which takes into account our acceptance of the charges, YCCC’s current financial position and the robust work we have undertaken to build the foundations for a Club which is truly inclusive and welcoming to all.

“Over the past year and a half, the reputational and financial impact of the racism crisis included the loss of sponsors and the removal of the privilege of hosting international cricket at Headingley, which was reinstated following the Club demonstrating adherence to a stringent ten-point plan outlined by the ECB.

“The Club has made significant investments to put in place best practice processes and procedures, as well as driving equality, diversity and inclusion through a new framework and taking important steps to improve the matchday experience to encourage greater inclusivity and tackle discrimination. This is in addition to the positive work we have done to transform our Performance Pathway and ensure young cricketers from all backgrounds can take part regardless of their economic circumstances.

“We hope that any sanctions are reflective of the circumstances the Club is in today and do not serve to hinder our ongoing commitment to create a brighter future for all associated with Yorkshire.”

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Equity in Cricket report: Discrimination 'widespread' in English cricket


According to the report, an England women's white-ball player receives a salary that is 20.6% that of her male equivalent and the allowance given to the women's captain is 31% that of the men's.

Domestically, the average salary of a woman in the regional structure is 45% that of a man at a first-class county, while in The Hundred the highest salary tier for women is £1,250 more than the lowest tier for men.

Even when players are excluded, there is an 18.8% gap in the average salary between female and male employees at the ECB.

The ICEC has recommended a "fundamental overhaul of the professional women players' pay structure".

This includes immediate parity between men's and women's international match fees, overall equal pay at international level by 2030 and equal pay in The Hundred in 2025.

'Elitist and exclusionary'
A lack of cricket in state schools and a talent pathway structurally aligned to private schools is partly to blame for "elitism and class-based discrimination", according to the report.

Some 58% of men to play for England in 2021 were privately educated, significantly higher than the 7% of the general population that went to private school.

To highlight the overrepresentation of privately educated people in the game, 42% of respondents to the ICEC's own survey went to a private school.

The report also referenced the costs associated in participating in talent pathways and "conflicts of interests and biases" from coaches as further barriers to player progression.

"The structure and operation of the talent pathway remains a barrier to equity and inclusion across gender, class and race," said the report. "It repeats and reinforces wider structural inequalities that exist across cricket in England and Wales."

The ICEC's recommendations that inter-county cricket should not begin before the age of 14 and all access to a county talent pathway programme should be free of charge by the 2025.

"We recommend that the entire talent pathway structure should be overhauled to make it more meritocratic, inclusive, accountable, transparent and consistent," said the report.

Of the British Pakistani groups, I assumed Indians and Pakistanis make up bulk of participants yet complaints scoured from all subdivisions.

This report is too woke for me as racism is subtle and more nuanced than this sledgehammer of a report.

British Bangladeshis from Yorkshire are trustees with football clubs and Lancashire CCC.

Racism is also a lucrative pie

 

[MenInG]

English cricket suffers from “widespread and deep-rooted” racism, sexism, elitism and class-based discrimination at all levels of the game and urgently needs reform, a landmark report has found.

The 317-page report from the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (Icec), which drew on evidence from more than 4,000 players, coaches, administrators and fans, also urges the sport to also face up to the fact “that it’s not banter or just a few bad apples” causing the problems.

The England and Wales Cricket Board responded to the report by issuing an unreserved apology for its failure to adequately tackle discrimination and said the findings were “a seminal moment” for the sport. It pledged to respond to 44 recommendations made by Icec within three months.

However Cindy Butts, the Icec chair, said that fundamental change was quickly needed. “Our findings are unequivocal,” she said. “Discrimination is both overt and baked into the structures and processes within cricket. The stark reality is cricket is not a game for everyone.

“Racism, class-based discrimination, elitism and sexism are widespread and deep rooted. The game must face up to the fact that it’s not banter or just a few bad apples.”

The report, which amounts to one of the most devastating published critiques of a British sports body, lays bare the extent of the game’s failings, including:

Racism is “entrenched” in cricket. “It is not confined to ‘pockets’,” the report states, “nor is it limited to individual incidents of misconduct.” The Icec found that 87% of people of Pakistani and Bangladeshi heritage who responded to its survey, along with 82% of Indian and 75% of Black respondents, said they had experienced discrimination.

Women are marginalised and routinely experience sexism and misogyny – with women’s teams “frequently demeaned, stereotyped and treated as second-class”. As the report also points out, the England women’s team are yet to play a Test at Lord’s, the home of cricket.

Cricket is “elitist and exclusionary” – with “private school and ‘old boys’ networks’ and cliques permeate the game to the exclusion of many”. The report also cites stories of children from state schools being called “peasants” or having their working class accent mimicked.

A “drinking and puerile lads’ culture” across the sport that puts women at risk of unwanted attention and acts as a barrier to the inclusion of Muslim communities.

A complaints system that is confusing, overtly defensive and not fit for purpose. The report says that victims often “suffer in silence” because they feel that no action will be taken if they report abuse.

The report also criticises the ECB for failing to recognise the extent of racism in cricket until more recently, when the former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq laid bare the abuse he had endured playing the game. And it questions why the sport’s governing body failed to take any steps to address the drop-off of black players, or the significant underrepresentation in professional cricket of those who attend state school.

“At the playing level, private school educated players are disproportionately represented, to a significant extent, in England’s national teams, both men and women, compared with the general population,” the report reads. “Diversity of ethnic background has also decreased in the men’s professional game over the last 30 years, and has never been high in the women’s game.”

The Icec’s 44 recommendations range from the modest to the radical. They include a number of measures to tackle racism, sexism and elitism, as well as calls for regular “culture” checks to ensure genuine change. “Cricket must not find itself in the same position in another two years’ time let alone another twenty,” the report states.

The Icec report also calls for an independent regulator, to ensure that the ECB no longer has a conflict of interest in acting as both a promoter and regulator.

Meanwhile in a suggestion that will have some traditionalists frothing it also calls on the annual Harrow versus Eton match, as well as the Varsity game between Oxford versus Cambridge, be replaced by a state school under-15s competition and a finals’ day for university teams, to indicate that the sport is becoming more inclusive.

“Some people may roll their eyes at the perceived ‘wokeness’ of this work,” the report states. “However, as much as the word may have been weaponized in recent years, taking on a pejorative meaning, we consider – and it is often defined as such – that being ‘woke’ or doing ‘woke work’ simply means being alive to injustice.”

Butts is a former commissioner at the Criminal Cases Review Commission and was deputy chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority. She is also a trustee of the football anti-racism charity Kick it Out. The report includes a foreword by the former Conservative prime minister Sir John Major.

Some recommendations – including significantly raising the opportunities for state school players – may prove economically challenging. The commission also notes that in 2021 England’s men cricketers received 13 times the amount paid to England’s women players, and suggests there should be equal pay at domestic level by 2029 and international level by 2030, which also may be difficult to achieve.

The report recognises the bravery of the ECB in commissioning the report in March 2021, and acknowledges the game has made some sizeable improvements recently, particularly in attracting more girls and women players. It also accepts that the problems it identifies are “not, sadly, unique to cricket” and are often indicative of “deeply rooted societal problems”.

However the ECB chair, Richard Thompson, said he recognised that the game had to do far more to significantly reform. “Cricket should be a game for everyone, and we know that this has not always been the case,” he said.

“Powerful conclusions within the report also highlight that for too long women and black people were neglected. We are truly sorry for this. I am determined that this wake-up call for cricket in England and Wales should not be wasted.”

Guardian

 

[MenInG]

A statement from AZEEM RAFIQ in response to ICEC report on equity in cricket, released today, Tuesday 27/08

“I welcome the report’s findings and acknowledge the extraordinary work that has been put into this inquiry.

There is no doubt now that the game we all love has suffered from institutional discrimination, including racism.

This report is an opportunity to fully reflect on what has happened and for the sport’s governing structures to work out a way forward to ensure that cricket is a game for everyone and that they feel supported, no matter their background" - Azeem Rafiq

 

[MenInG]

"Sport should be a driving force for good, bringing people together and uniting communities. We welcome the publication of the ICEC report which paints a complex picture of the issues which the sport faces, and which have been ignored for too long. In particular, the report highlights structural challenges and a problematic culture across the game that has excluded and discriminated against a range of groups.

“Yorkshire County Cricket Club has seen first-hand the damage that can be caused by a failure to tackle discrimination of all kinds, and the vital need to cut it off at source. The creation of an inclusive environment for all can only be achieved through collaboration at all levels of the game. Alongside others, we will digest the recommendations laid out by the ICEC and look forward to working with the ECB as it determines its plan of action over the next three months.

“As one of the largest county clubs in the country, we recognise the importance of working with stakeholders both within and outside the game to address this existential threat to cricket. The progress we have made over the past 18 months and the critical steps we have taken have already begun to help us build a better foundation for everyone associated with Yorkshire. There is still much to do, and we have faced difficult decisions along the way, but the progress we have made gives hope that the challenges facing the sport we love are not insurmountable.

“We have seen an increase in diverse cricketers on our Pathways programme, and introduced measures to improve access for those from lower income households, including removal of match fees and the provision of free kit. We have also rolled out schemes to increase accessibility for spectators and players, underpinned by zero tolerance policies and robust and fair processes to encourage speaking up and addressing any concerns. We are optimistic that we can bring about real and lasting change, and hope to draw on our own experience to help support others on the journey to making cricket a game for everyone.”

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Racism stems from societal issue. Pakistanis have long been marginalized.

Riots occured in the cricket heartlands.

Quaid-e-Azam league was borne out of discrimination in Bradford. They got on with it.

Bumble suggested some like shirking fees. Sense of entitlement a major problem

 

[MenInG]

The PCA welcomes the findings from the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) Report and acknowledges the need to address discrimination throughout the game.

PCA Chief Executive, Rob Lynch, said:

“We thank the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) for their diligence in producing this landmark Report. As the member-body for professional cricketers in England and Wales, we are committed to leading change within the professional game.

“Many of our members have been incredibly brave over recent years, detailing their experiences of discrimination within professional cricket environments. We thank them for openly sharing these often-painful accounts.

“The PCA totally condemns discrimination of any kind. The game must acknowledge and continue to learn from the past and focus on the future to ensure that cricket can be a sport for all.

“The Report provides an opportunity to work with the leaders of cricket in England and Wales to create genuine sustainable change. It will be a long process and it must be a journey the whole sport is fully committed to.

“The independent nature of this Report has allowed the ICEC to challenge all areas of the professional game to support the development of equality, diversity and inclusion in English and Welsh cricket. The PCA sees this as an opportunity for our members and the organisation to lead the much needed changes to create a truly inclusive and fair environment for the current and future generations to thrive.

“We welcome the recommendations on overhauling women players’ pay and working conditions. We have been lobbying the ECB to close the gap across domestic and international women’s cricket and the Commissioners’ recommendations will further assist this goal.

“Following extensive consultation with members and repeated lobbying of the ECB, we hope the ICEC Report will help to define a new regulatory process for the professional game, to provide absolute clarity for all involved. An improved Anti-Discrimination Code also needs to be implemented to assure all in the game are protected.

“We note the Commissioners’ recognition of strides that have been made in EDI in recent years, and acknowledge we have a vast amount of work ahead.

“We want cricket to be a game for everyone. The PCA aims to work constructively and robustly with the ECB over the next three months as they create a new whole game action plan, to address the recommendations of the Report.”

 

[MenInG]

England captain Ben Stokes says he is "deeply sorry" to hear of experiences of discrimination in a report into cricket in England and Wales.

The Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) says racism, sexism, classism and elitism are "widespread" in English and Welsh cricket.

Giving a statement before Wednesday's second Ashes Test at Lord's, Stokes said cricket "must go further and be more inclusive and diverse".

"As a sport, we need to learn from past mistakes and do all we can to make people feel safe and be themselves at every level," Stokes said.

"The game should be enjoyed without fear of discrimination."

The damning report, released earlier on Tuesday, looked into recreational and professional cricket, and the evidence gathered came from more than 4,000 respondents.

Among other things, it said that "structural and institutional racism" continues to exist within the game, women are treated as "subordinate" to men at all levels of the sport and there is a prevalence of "elitism and class-based discrimination" in cricket.

"To the people involved within the game who have been made to feel unwelcome, I am deeply sorry to hear of your experiences," Stokes said.

"Cricket needs to celebrate diversity on all fronts, as without diversity it would not be the game it is today.

"We must go further and be more inclusive and diverse because the game I love and millions worldwide love should be enjoyed without fear of discrimination or judgement whether due to upbringing, race or gender.

"Everyone has a different story to tell.

"I am Ben Stokes, born in New Zealand, a state educated pupil who dropped out of school at 16 with one GCSE in PE.

"I needed help with the spelling and grammar in this speech and am currently sitting here as the England men's Test captain.

"It is clear there is so much more the game has to do and as players we really want to be a part of that to ensure this is truly a sport for everyone."

BBC

 

[MenInG]

The England and Wales Cricket Board has recommended Yorkshire are fined £500,000 and deducted points across all formats for their handling of the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal.

Former Yorkshire player Rafiq said English cricket was "institutionally racist", and racist language was used "constantly" at the club.

Yorkshire previously admitted four amended charges.

The Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) will announce sanctions "soon".

The recommendations came on the day a long-awaited independent report found racism, sexism, classism and elitism are "widespread" in English and Welsh cricket.

The recommendation of a £500,000 fine was broken down in relation to each charge - £100,000 for the mishandling of Rafiq's case, £100,000 for the deletion and destruction of data, £150,000 for not taking action relating to racist behaviour, and £150,000 for the systemic use of racist language over a prolonged period at the club.

The ECB suggested £350,000 of this should be suspended for three years, while the remaining £150,000 should be paid in instalments.

Recommended sporting sanctions included a deduction of 48 to 72 points in the 2023 County Championship, a deduction of four to six points in the 2023 One-Day Cup, and a deduction of four to six points in the 2023 T20 Blast.

ECB lawyer Jane Mulcahy KC said it had taken Yorkshire's financial status into account and is not trying to put the club out of business.

Yorkshire chief executive Stephen Vaughan said in March the club had a £3.5m shortfall and a need to repay £14.9m to the Graves Trust - one of its major creditors.

Yorkshire's lawyer Daniel Stilitz KC asked the independent CDC panel to take into consideration the "detriment" Yorkshire has already "suffered".

"What is striking about this case is how far beyond sometimes slightly symbolic measures that Yorkshire has gone," he said.

"We do submit that it's difficult to think of a case in which an organisation which has embraced so forcefully the opportunity to transform itself in this regard. In fairness, the ECB has accepted in their submissions that the club has undertaken significant EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) action in respect of all aspects of its operation.

"The last two years have been some of the most difficult in the club's entire history. Yorkshire is not the only club to have issues with racism, as the ICEC (Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket) report today acknowledges.

"Nor is cricket the only sport to have done so. But really Yorkshire has been a lightning rod for concerns about racism in sports and its reputation, performance and finances have suffered and continue to suffer as a result."

Six ex-Yorkshire players found to have used racist language at Yorkshire were sanctioned with fines and bans by the CDC in May.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan was cleared "on the balance of probabilities" by the panel of using racist language towards Rafiq.

BBC

 

[BouncerGuy]

Yorkshire will be accused of selling their soul as Royals eye takeover.

• The Rajasthan Royals are considering a stunning takeover at Yorkshire
• The IPL outfit are set to offer £25million to seize full control of stricken county
• For many years, Yorkshire seemed the least likely to sell to foreign investors

For most of their 160-year history, Yorkshire would have seemed the least likely of England’s first-class cricket counties to sell themselves to foreign investors.

Until 1992, when Indian starlet Sachin Tendulkar was famously photographed wearing a flat cap and brandishing a pint of Tetley’s after signing for them, Yorkshire did not allow overseas players.

And, for the previous 24 years, they had an even narrower view of what constituted foreignness. If you weren’t born within the county boundaries, forget it: the white rose could not possibly be for you.

That absurdity was relaxed to accommodate those who had been educated within Yorkshire, allowing the Salford-born Michael Vaughan to first represent the county in 1993.

But a defiant parochialism has long been part of the club’s fabric, which is why Mail Sport’s revelation that the Yorkshire board will consider handing full control to IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in return for a convertible loan of £25million is such an eye-opener.

Back in 1863, when Yorkshire County Cricket Club came into existence, membership cost 10 shillings and sixpence, and the professionals who played for the county earned about £5 a game.

The catch — and some might argue it was a very Yorkshire catch — was that they had to fork out for their own travel and accommodation. Things are not quite that bad in 2023, although the £15m still owed by the club to the family trust owned by former chairman Colin Graves has become a particular concern in light of the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal, which has cost them both reputationally and financially.

A deal with the Royals, who are owned by British-Indian businessman Manoj Badale and already have their fingers in Twenty20 pies outside India, would provide stability of sorts. It might also set a trend from which, for English cricket in general, there would be no going back.

It’s probably a stretch to argue that overseas sugar daddies would start to eye up other English counties. Other than Yorkshire — who have won more Championship titles, 32, than anyone — only Surrey can match their allure, and they are in no need of urgent financial assistance. Most of the other 16 first-class counties are less attractive.

But Headingley hosts Northern Superchargers, one of the eight teams in the Hundred, a competition where foreign investment is very much part of the ECB’s medium-term plan. Rajasthan Royals’ purchase of Yorkshire could speed up the process, and persuade other IPL franchises to grab a slice of the Hundred pie.

And, for all the ECB’s insistence that the English summer is not for sale at any price, there are many who would regard such a move as the thin end of the wedge.

By dint of their own mismanagement, Yorkshire could yet stumble into setting a trend — and no matter if it upsets the traditionalists who once guarded the county boundaries as if their lives depended upon it.

Yorkshire may decide they have little choice but to acknowledge the fast-changing power dynamics in world cricket, and take the IPL cash. They may also recall that insularity hasn’t always worked out in the past.

In 1968, they won their seventh Championship title in 10 years. But while other counties began hoovering up overseas stars, Yorkshire’s intransigence — bordering on arrogance — contributed to their failure to win the competition again until 2001.

That drought included a traumatic last-place finish in 1983 — and thanks to the 48-point deduction handed down by the ECB as punishment for the Rafiq affair, it is a fate that could befall them once more, 40 years on.

A takeover by Rajasthan Royals would not guarantee against future disappointment. But it may just allow Yorkshire to breathe a little more freely, even as they face inevitable accusations that they have sold their soul.

(Daily Mail)

 

[Rana]

Yorkshire will be accused of selling their soul as Royals eye takeover.

• The Rajasthan Royals are considering a stunning takeover at Yorkshire
• The IPL outfit are set to offer £25million to seize full control of stricken county
• For many years, Yorkshire seemed the least likely to sell to foreign investors

For most of their 160-year history, Yorkshire would have seemed the least likely of England’s first-class cricket counties to sell themselves to foreign investors.

Until 1992, when Indian starlet Sachin Tendulkar was famously photographed wearing a flat cap and brandishing a pint of Tetley’s after signing for them, Yorkshire did not allow overseas players.

And, for the previous 24 years, they had an even narrower view of what constituted foreignness. If you weren’t born within the county boundaries, forget it: the white rose could not possibly be for you.

That absurdity was relaxed to accommodate those who had been educated within Yorkshire, allowing the Salford-born Michael Vaughan to first represent the county in 1993.

But a defiant parochialism has long been part of the club’s fabric, which is why Mail Sport’s revelation that the Yorkshire board will consider handing full control to IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in return for a convertible loan of £25million is such an eye-opener.

Back in 1863, when Yorkshire County Cricket Club came into existence, membership cost 10 shillings and sixpence, and the professionals who played for the county earned about £5 a game.

The catch — and some might argue it was a very Yorkshire catch — was that they had to fork out for their own travel and accommodation. Things are not quite that bad in 2023, although the £15m still owed by the club to the family trust owned by former chairman Colin Graves has become a particular concern in light of the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal, which has cost them both reputationally and financially.

A deal with the Royals, who are owned by British-Indian businessman Manoj Badale and already have their fingers in Twenty20 pies outside India, would provide stability of sorts. It might also set a trend from which, for English cricket in general, there would be no going back.

It’s probably a stretch to argue that overseas sugar daddies would start to eye up other English counties. Other than Yorkshire — who have won more Championship titles, 32, than anyone — only Surrey can match their allure, and they are in no need of urgent financial assistance. Most of the other 16 first-class counties are less attractive.

But Headingley hosts Northern Superchargers, one of the eight teams in the Hundred, a competition where foreign investment is very much part of the ECB’s medium-term plan. Rajasthan Royals’ purchase of Yorkshire could speed up the process, and persuade other IPL franchises to grab a slice of the Hundred pie.

And, for all the ECB’s insistence that the English summer is not for sale at any price, there are many who would regard such a move as the thin end of the wedge.

By dint of their own mismanagement, Yorkshire could yet stumble into setting a trend — and no matter if it upsets the traditionalists who once guarded the county boundaries as if their lives depended upon it.

Yorkshire may decide they have little choice but to acknowledge the fast-changing power dynamics in world cricket, and take the IPL cash. They may also recall that insularity hasn’t always worked out in the past.

In 1968, they won their seventh Championship title in 10 years. But while other counties began hoovering up overseas stars, Yorkshire’s intransigence — bordering on arrogance — contributed to their failure to win the competition again until 2001.

That drought included a traumatic last-place finish in 1983 — and thanks to the 48-point deduction handed down by the ECB as punishment for the Rafiq affair, it is a fate that could befall them once more, 40 years on.

A takeover by Rajasthan Royals would not guarantee against future disappointment. But it may just allow Yorkshire to breathe a little more freely, even as they face inevitable accusations that they have sold their soul.

(Daily Mail)

So the Racism by Yorkshire was mainly against players of Pakistan origin, and now they will sell their county to an Indian owner that will categorically exclude players of Pakistani backgrounds due to its government’s policies

 

[U$ofA]

Looks like IPL is spreading it's wings again. Surprising that a county team is worth only $30 million.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Looks like IPL is spreading it's wings again. Surprising that a county team is worth only $30 million.

Indeed, the valuation of a county cricket team at $30 million may come as a surprise, especially when compared to the considerably higher valuations of franchises in leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL). County cricket teams have their own historical significance and contribute to the development of cricket talent, they may not have the same commercial appeal and global reach as leagues like the IPL.

 

[MenInG]

The highly regarded business leader takes over from interim Chair Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, bringing a wealth of experience and specialist knowledge to the Club.

The board of directors (the “Board”) of The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Limited (“YCCC” or “the Club”) is delighted to announce that it has elected to appoint Harry Chathli as the new Chair of the Club. Mr Chathli’s appointment as Chair follows his election as a Non-Executive Director (NED)becoming effective, after a members vote at the Club’s recent extraordinary general meeting and the registration by the Financial Conduct Authority of relevant changes to the Club’s rules.

Mr Chathli succeeds interim Chair Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, who will continue to serve on the board as a NED.

Mr Chathli said: “It’s an honour and privilege to be appointed Chair of one of the most iconic clubs in the cricketing world and a renowned contributor to English cricket heritage.

“Cricket is at an inflexion point with unprecedented growth reaching new audiences who are attracted by the variety of formats. YCCC has played its part in this growth within the men’s cricket and has also been at the forefront of development of women’s cricket in the country. I am also proud of the fact we are championing disability and LGBTQ+ cricket.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Tanni for her excellent stewardship of the Club through a very challenging period this year. YCCC is an exceptional club and I'm looking forward to working with her, the Board and the management team in bringing some trophies back to the Club.”

Stephen Vaughan, Chief Executive Officer of The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Limited, said: “We are delighted to welcome Harry to the Board and as Chair at Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

“Harry brings strong business acumen and experience, and I am sure this positive impact that will benefit Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the Yorkshire Family as a whole.

“The Board looks forward to working with Harry and collectively we are committed to delivering long-term success that YCCC members deserve.”

 

[MenInG]

Never ending....


Yorkshire Cricket Foundation Chair, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, said:

This morning trustees of the Board for the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation (YCF) were made aware of a number of concerning social media comments made by one of its trustees.

Given the seriousness of the issues raised, an urgent meeting was called with the YCF Board of Trustees in which it was agreed by all that the language used was both discriminatory and abusive in nature.

Across Yorkshire Cricket, our mission is to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone – discrimination of any kind cannot be tolerated.

During the meeting, the Board voted to remove the trustee from their position with immediate effect. As such, this individual is no longer associated with YCF or the wider Yorkshire Cricket family. I apologise on behalf of the YCF for any offence caused by these unacceptable posts.

==

Yorkshire County Cricket Club Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Vaughan, said:

We are aware of the unacceptable social posts made by a trustee of the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation (YCF). Discrimination has no place in our game, and we are pleased that the YCF board, as fellow members of the Yorkshire Cricket family, acted quickly in removing this individual from their position with immediate effect.

 

[FearlessRoar]

Yorkshire have agreed to sell Headingley to Mike Ashley for £23million with the ex-Newcastle United owner close to securing a 10-year naming rights deal for the stadium.

Mail Sport revealed in September that Yorkshire were considering selling the iconic ground to clear debts that were threatening to send them into administration.

Now Ashley is set to see off interest from the Rajasthan Royals and former chairman Colin Graves to complete a sale and lease-back deal which will safeguard the club’s future.

Yorkshire are believed to have negotiated an option to buy back the ground that has been their home since 1891 at a fixed price as part of the sale.

The club will continue to play at Headingley as tenants of Ashley’s Frasers Group, who will charge Yorkshire around £1m a season in rent.

Source: Dailymail

 

[FearlessRoar]

A statement from The Yorkshire County Cricket Club:

Contrary to media reports this morning, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club (YCCC) strongly refutes claims made that former employees from the Club’s coaching staff have been approached with a view to returning to the Club.

No one at YCCC has spoken to any former coaching staff about potential roles at the Club.

As with any elite level sports club, the need for review is commonplace, but with the season fast approaching we do not envisage any more changes.

The appointment of any Club roles will always be subject to transparent, fair, and merit-based recruitment and selection process, as is best practice and Club policy.