SORRY STATE
Yorkshire’s apology slammed after Rafiq claims of racism described as ‘inappropriate behaviour’
AZEEM RAFIQ got an apology from Yorkshire yesterday – but not the one he wanted.
The White Rose county were forced into issuing a statement by the ECB after a report into allegations of racism made by their former spinner was completed, delivered... but not published.
Rafiq (right) complained candidly last year about the racism he experienced during his time at Yorkshire, prompting the club to investigate his claims.
Almost a year later, the report has been concluded – and the county received the 100-page document last weekend.
However, they initially refused to publish or even comment on it, prompting Rafiq to call on the ECB to step in. ECB chairman Ian Watmore (above) sent an official letter to the county demanding a copy of the report and “a timeline for publication”.
When Yorkshire did break cover yesterday they refused to use the word ‘racism’ to describe what Rafiq suffered – instead saying he was “the victim of inappropriate behaviour”.
They went on to offer him a “profound” apology but stated: “Many of the allegations were not upheld and for others there was insufficient evidence for the panel to make a determination.”
Yorkshire chairman Roger Hutton issued a personal apology to Rafiq, a former England Under-19 captain who skippered the White Rose in a Twenty20 match in 2012.
He said: “I would like to acknowledge Azeem’s courage in raising these issues, and his participation in the investigation, which I understand must have been very difficult.
“I would also like to express my sincere apology to him for certain failings by the club, which have been highlighted by the panel.
“He has very obviously experienced some difficult and distressing times since 2008 and the club could, and should, have supported him better.
“Since I joined the board in 2020, it has become obvious to me that it has continually tried to improve its relationship with diverse communities.
“It has however not progressed far enough, particularly as we learn to see the world from fresh eyes, and I consider that this report will be a platform for further important changes at Yorkshire County Cricket Club.”