Former Yorkshire Players Sanctioned for Racist Language by Cricket Discipline Commission

Six Ex-Yorkshire Players Sanctioned for Racist Language by Cricket Discipline Commission

The Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) has imposed fines and bans on six former Yorkshire players after they were found to have used racist language during their time at the county. The disciplinary action follows claims made by former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq, which were investigated by a CDC panel in March.

Racist Language Charges and Sanctions

Gary Ballance, Tim Bresnan, Matthew Hoggard, Andrew Gale, John Blain, and Richard Pyrah have all been found guilty of using racist slurs. The CDC panel has imposed fines ranging from £2,500 to £6,000 on each of them. Ex-England players Ballance and Bresnan have also received playing suspensions, while former captain Gale and all-rounder Pyrah have been banned from coaching.

Appeal Option and Suspension Terms

The sanctioned players have the right to appeal against the CDC’s decisions until 9 June. However, any suspensions will only be enforced if the individuals return to cricket regulated by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). It is worth noting that Ballance retired from playing in April, Bresnan in January 2022, Gale in 2016, Pyrah in 2015, Hoggard in 2013, and Blain’s last top-level match was in 2010.

Gale and Pyrah’s Employment Status

Andrew Gale and Richard Pyrah were among the 16 individuals dismissed by Yorkshire in 2021 and have not been involved in coaching since then. Both Gale and Pyrah succeeded in their claims of unfair dismissal against the club.

The disciplinary actions taken by the CDC highlight the seriousness with which instances of racist language and behaviour are treated in cricket. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity, diversity, and respect within the sport.