Probe into racism in Yorkshire cricket

YORKSHIRE County Cricket Club intend to conduct a formal investigation into Azeem Rafiq’s accusation the club are “institutionally racist” after the former England Under-19 captain revealed the matter left him on the brink of taking his own life.

Off-spinner Rafiq, who had two stints at Headingley between 2008 and 2018, gave an interview in which he said, as a Muslim, he was made to feel like an “outsider” at the county.

“I know how close I was to committing suicide during my time at Yorkshire,” he said. “I was living my family’s dream as a professional cricketer, but inside I was dying. I was dreading going to work. I was in pain every day. There were times I did things to try and fit in that, as a Muslim, I now look back on and regret.

“I believe the club is institutionally racist and I don’t believe they are prepared to acknowledge the fact or willing to change. My only motivation now is to prevent anyone else feeling the same pain.”

Yorkshire initially said Hanif Malik, a board member and chair of Yorkshire’s Equality and Diversity Committee, had been in touch with the 29-year-old.

The club added yesterday that the decision was made at the start of the week to launch an official investigation into the matter.

A statement on the club’s website added: “Any allegation of this nature is hugely concerning. We accepted a long time ago that change was needed at Headingley to improve diversity, especially in terms of racial inclusivity.

“As a player and former captain, Azeem was extremely highly respected and well regarded by the club.” 18+, UK only. New customers only. First cash bet only. Bet £10 or more at odds of 1/1 or more and get a £10 Free Bet. Bets must be placed and settled on the same day. Each Way, Cash out, Void, Draw No Bet or Football Match Result ‘draw’ wagers do not count for this offer. Mastercard payment types not valid for this offer. Free Bets awarded midday the following day after settlement of qualifying

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