By Stephen Vaughan
Dear member,
Tomorrow morning Board representatives from the Club will attend a hearing on sanctions, following the admission of four amended charges brought by the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) earlier this year. The date 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.
Over the past couple of years, 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.
As fans, I am aware this period of uncertainty has been particularly unsettling. Your continued support throughout challenging times has helped to keep the club afloat. I am optimstic that your patience and dedication will be rewarded many times over as we look to a bright future ahead. You remain the lifeblood of this great Club and we will continue to build it in dialogue with you.
We do not expect sanctions to be announced during tomorrow’s hearing. The range of sanctions the CDC has as its disposal include a caution as to future conduct, a reprimand, a fine without limit and points deductions. I want to assure you that we are focused on achieving a reasonable sanction which takes into account our acceptance of the charges, YCCC’s financial position and the robust work we have undertaken to build the foundations for a Club which is truly inclusive and welcoming to all.
I will be sure to provide an update in due course, and we will be responding to the ICEC findings once we have had sight of the report.
If you have any questions in the meantime, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Best,
Stephen
