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.”

Related News

View all news
Anthony McGrath

We need to rid ourselves of inconsistency - McGrath

Anthony McGrath admitted his frustration at Yorkshire’s early-season inconsistency after their innings defeat against county champions Surrey at the Kia Oval today. 

Read more
Jonny Bairstow

Report: Surrey v Yorkshire Men, Rothesay CC - Day Four

Yorkshire fell to an innings defeat during the fourth morning against county champions Surrey at the Kia Oval, despite captain Jonny Bairstow’s 77. 

Read more

Live: Rothesay County Championship – Surrey v Yorkshire Men, Day 4

Yorkshire are aiming to avoid a final day defeat against champions Surrey at the Kia Oval. Can captain Jonny Bairstow build on his overnight 64 not out and produce an innings for the ages to pull this one out of the fire. Follow our blog for live updates.

Read more

Sign up to our newsletter

For all the latest news, previews, ticket, membership and Premium Experiences information and more exciting content from Yorkshire Cricket and the Northern Diamonds straight to your inbox, subscribe now.

To view our privacy policy, click here.