ECB suspends Yorkshire from hosting international and major matches amidst racism saga

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has suspended Yorkshire from hosting any international or major matches amidst all the chaos surrounding ‘institutional racism’ at the club. The ECB held a board meeting to discuss the handling of Azeem Rafiq’s case after which the decision was taken.

Going by a statement, the ECB said that the manner in which Yorkshire cricket has dealt with Rafiq’s case is “wholly unacceptable” and is marring the reputation of the game. The issue surrounding Rafiq’s claims has been hogging the limelight for over a year and ECB is clearly not happy with Yorkshire.

The ECB was also clear cut in saying that the body won’t be tolerating any kind of discriminatory act that bring disrepute to the game of cricket. Moreover, the board stated that Yorkshire hasn’t lived up to their obligations towards the game.

ECB not satisfied with Yorkshire 

“The ECB Board today discussed the developments in relation to Yorkshire County Cricket Club (YCCC), ” the statement read, Mirror reported.

“It is clear to the Board that YCCC’s handling of the issues raised by Azeem Rafiq is wholly unacceptable and is causing serious damage to the reputation of the game. The ECB find this matter abhorrent and against the spirit of cricket and its values.”

“There is no place for racism or any form of discrimination in cricket and where it is found, swift action must be taken. This matter must be dealt with robustly if the sport is to demonstrate its commitment to truly being a game for everyone.”

“In the meantime, YCCC are suspended from hosting international or major matches until it has clearly demonstrated that it can meet the standards expected of an international venue, ECB member and First-Class County,” the statement added.

Left-handed batter Gary Ballance has also been “suspended indefinitely from selection” after he admitted calling Rafiq a “P***”, a term, which was referred to as “banter” in a report. Balance stated that he “deeply regretted” the use of some of his languages in the past.

Balance last played for the Three Lions back in 2017. He made his debut for England back in 2013 and has represented his country in 23 Tests and 16 ODIs.