Azeem has shown such courage by calling it out

be praised as such. We issue an apology to him and say sorry for what you and your family have experienced and for the way we have handled it.”

Yorkshire have settled Rafiq’s employment tribunal claim. Rafiq and Patel spoke at length over the weekend following the latter’s selection as the new figurehead at the troubled club.

Patel said: “I have been appointed with a clear remit of righting the wrongs of the past and making sure this club is an inclusive home for aspiring players of the future.

“Racism is not banter. It is simply not acceptable.

“My heart goes out to anyone who has experienced racism or discrimination or abuse. This has been a painful and difficult period for the club.

“But there is a clear need for an urgent and seismic change starting from within and I am determined to lead this club to a better future.” After more than six hours of talks Rafiq, who is due to give evidence to the DCMS select committee next week, praised the club for making what he described as a good start in tackling institutional racism.

“Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the sport at large desperately need reform,” said Rafiq.

“I will continue to campaign against institutional racism and look forward to speaking at the select committee hearing and I urge others who have suffered to come forward.”

Rafiq called for chief executive Mark Arthur, above, and director of cricket Martyn Moxon to be relieved of their positions.

He said: “They have consistently failed to take responsibility for what happened on their watch and

must go.”