bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Jun 5, 2023 20:14:50 GMT
Yorkshire: Colin Graves criticised by club after pulling out of chair bid..By Jack Skelton, BBC Sport.
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Former Yorkshire chairman Colin Graves subsequently chaired the England and Wales Cricket BoardYorkshire have criticised former chair Colin Graves after he withdrew his bid to return to the role. The club are looking for a successor to Lord Patel after he stepped down in March, with Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson currently interim chair. Graves, chair from 2012 to 2015, said he wanted to return to help sort out the financial difficulties after the racism scandal. Yorkshire said at "no point" had Graves made a "tangible offer" to the board. In a statement confirming they had been notified of his withdrawal on Monday, the club said were are "disappointed" that Graves had done so "publicly", with a letter reportedly sent to Grey-Thompson published in the Yorkshire Post. Yorkshire owe £14.9m to the Graves Trust, a major creditor of the club. Graves sits independent of the trust, which is overseen by professional trustees. The county lost a significant number of sponsors over their handling of the Azeem Rafiq scandal, while they also had to agree compensation packages with sacked staff who won claims for unfair dismissal. Yorkshire have admitted four amended charges from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stemming from Rafiq's allegations, and sanctions will be discussed at a hearing on 27 June. Potential sanctions include unlimited fine, points deductions and suspension from ECB competitions. Yorkshire said they are "obliged to make it absolutely clear that at no point did Colin make a clearly defined, tangible offer that the board was able to consider formally, unlike other interested parties involved in the refinance process". They added: "We have consistently outlined that the new chair would be appointed using a fair, thorough and robust process, which is ongoing. "Colin indicated that the terms of his return as chair would require total control of the board and executive. "This would run counter to that process, as well as the best practice governance requirements set out in the County Governance Code that were agreed by all counties in 2019." Yorkshire said Graves' reported criticism of how the board is handling the financial problems was "unfounded" and showed a "distinct lack of understanding" of the club's position. They added: "The short- and long-term financial wellbeing of the club remains the board's priority, and we will not be distracted by speculation which is unhelpful to our primary objective of securing the future of Yorkshire County Cricket Club and making it a welcoming club for everyone." Patel took over in November 2021 after Roger Hutton resigned over Yorkshire's response to the Rafiq scandal. Under Patel, Yorkshire changed their rules last year to remove the need for written approval from the trustees of the Graves Trust to appoint or remove board members after the ECB made it a key requirement in order to reinstate Headingley's right to host England matches. Graves, who was ECB chair from 2015 to 2020, backed the reforms. ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/111B/production/_129997340_gettyimages-1176400300.jpg
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Jun 12, 2023 21:26:23 GMT
Colin Graves: ECB criticises ex-Yorkshire chairman's racism 'banter' claim..
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Six ex-Yorkshire players were found to have used racist language, stemming from claims made by Azeem Rafiq (above)The England and Wales Cricket board has criticised former Yorkshire chairman Colin Graves for suggesting incidents of racism at the county were "banter". In February Yorkshire accepted four amended charges related to allegations of racism and bullying made by former player Azeem Rafiq. Graves said no racism allegations were raised to him when he was chairman between 2012 and 2015. The ECB said it was "disappointed" with his comments. "We must never again hear the accounts like Azeem Rafiq's, where racist slurs are used as part of normalised language," an ECB statement read. "These events, along with many issues experienced by Azeem and others during their time at Yorkshire, have been upheld more than once, including during proceedings overseen by the Cricket Discipline Committee (CDC). "We vehemently disagree that this is 'just banter' and believe any debate in regard should stop immediately." Former spinner Rafiq first made claims of historical racism at Headingley in August 2020, later calling English cricket "institutionally racist". Six ex-Yorkshire players found to have used racist language were sanctioned with fines and bans by the CDC last month. Former England captain Michael Vaughan was cleared "on the balance of probabilities" by the panel of using racist language towards Rafiq. The sanctions resulting from Yorkshire's four charges will be discussed at a hearing on 27th June. Potential sanctions include an unlimited fine, points deductions and suspension from ECB competitions. In an interview with Sky Sports News, Graves, who was ECB chairman from 2015 to 2020, said of the racism claims at Yorkshire: "There have been odd occasions where words have been said that people may regret afterwards. "I don't think it was done on a racist, savage basis. I know people don't like the word banter, but I think there could have been a lot of banter in there about it. "When you play cricket and you're part of cricket teams and you're in cricket dressing rooms, that's what happened in the past. "But the world has changed; society has changed. It's not acceptable. I understand that, I accept it, full stop." On any specific allegations, Graves said: "When I was chairman of the club, when some of these allegations were made, I can tell you now, nothing was brought up within the club." Graves hoped to return as Yorkshire chairman but withdrew from the running last week. Lord Patel stepped down from the role in March, with Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson currently interim chair. ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/F7E0/production/_130065436_gettyimages-1146939768.jpg
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Jun 27, 2023 18:48:55 GMT
Yorkshire racism scandal: ECB recommends £500,000 fine and points deductions..
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Azeem Rafiq first detailed allegations of racism at Yorkshire in September 2020The England and Wales Cricket Board has recommended Yorkshire are fined £500,000 and deducted points across all formats for their handling of the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal. Former Yorkshire player Rafiq said English cricket was "institutionally racist", and racist language was used "constantly" at the club. Yorkshire previously admitted four amended charges. The Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) will announce sanctions "soon". The recommendations came on the day a long-awaited independent report found racism, sexism, classism and elitism are "widespread" in English and Welsh cricket. The recommendation of a £500,000 fine was broken down in relation to each charge - £100,000 for the mishandling of Rafiq's case, £100,000 for the deletion and destruction of data, £150,000 for not taking action relating to racist behaviour, and £150,000 for the systemic use of racist language over a prolonged period at the club. The ECB suggested £350,000 of this should be suspended for three years, while the remaining £150,000 should be paid in instalments. Recommended sporting sanctions included a deduction of 48 to 72 points in the 2023 County Championship, a deduction of four to six points in the 2023 One-Day Cup, and a deduction of four to six points in the 2023 T20 Blast. ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/462D/production/_121456971_whatsubject.jpgYorkshire Cricket Club said it wanted to make Headingley 'a welcoming place for all'ECB lawyer Jane Mulcahy KC said it had taken Yorkshire's financial status into account and is not trying to put the club out of business. Yorkshire chief executive Stephen Vaughan said in March the club had a £3.5m shortfall and a need to repay £14.9m to the Graves Trust - one of its major creditors. Yorkshire's lawyer Daniel Stilitz KC asked the independent CDC panel to take into consideration the "detriment" Yorkshire has already "suffered". "What is striking about this case is how far beyond sometimes slightly symbolic measures that Yorkshire has gone," he said. "We do submit that it's difficult to think of a case in which an organisation which has embraced so forcefully the opportunity to transform itself in this regard. In fairness, the ECB has accepted in their submissions that the club has undertaken significant EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) action in respect of all aspects of its operation. "The last two years have been some of the most difficult in the club's entire history. Yorkshire is not the only club to have issues with racism, as the ICEC (Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket) report today acknowledges. "Nor is cricket the only sport to have done so. But really Yorkshire has been a lightning rod for concerns about racism in sports and its reputation, performance and finances have suffered and continue to suffer as a result." Six ex-Yorkshire players found to have used racist language at Yorkshire were sanctioned with fines and bans by the CDC in May. Former England captain Michael Vaughan was cleared "on the balance of probabilities" by the panel of using racist language towards Rafiq.
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Post by lostinspace on Jul 28, 2023 15:51:54 GMT
Yorkshire CC fined £400.000 in connection with the rascist scandal with £300.000 suspended for 2 years .so that won't affect them!!, 48 points deducted from the current season of play, eliminating them from any chance of promotion, with, what is a senseless deduction of 4 points from this years T20 Blast competition, that should be instigated for next season as it has no affect on the club whatsoever this season... what if they had won it? !!
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Jul 28, 2023 17:09:15 GMT
Yorkshire issued points deduction and £400,000 fine over racism scandal..Adding to what Lostinspace said above.
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Azeem Rafiq first detailed allegations of racism at Yorkshire in September 2020Yorkshire have been docked 48 points from the 2023 County Championship and fined for their handling of the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal. They have also been deducted four points in the 2023 T20 Blast. Yorkshire said they accepted the sanctions imposed by the Cricket Discipline Commission, which saw a £400,000 fine levied, £300,000 of which was suspended for two years. The club had previously admitted four amended charges. Former Yorkshire player Rafiq said English cricket was "institutionally racist", and racist language was used "constantly" at the club. The immediate points deduction in the County Championship effectively all-but ends Yorkshire's hopes of the second promotion place, dropping them from sixth place to bottom of Division Two, 63 points behind second-placed Sussex. This year's T20 Blast has already finished and Yorkshire have now dropped to eighth out of nine in the North Group final standings. In a statement, Yorkshire said the CDC and ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) had "acknowledged the vast amount of work done by YCCC to overcome the cultural issues that existed within the club, which allowed racist and discriminatory behaviour to go unchallenged". "We are accountable for these issues, and we accepted four amended charges as part of a continued commitment to ensure we are able to move forward," the club added. "We are disappointed to receive the points deductions which affect players and staff at the club, who were not responsible for the situation. "They have worked tirelessly on and off the field to rebuild Yorkshire into an inclusive and welcoming club that reflects the communities it serves. Greater clarity over our situation will allow us all now to look ahead." Six ex-Yorkshire players found to have used racist language at Yorkshire were sanctioned with fines and bans by the CDC in May. Former England captain Michael Vaughan was cleared "on the balance of probabilities" by the panel of using racist language towards Rafiq. The ECB recommended a £500,000 fine, with £350,000 of it being suspended for three years, as well as points deductions. ECB chief executive Richard Gould said penalties announced for Yorkshire "mark the end of a thorough disciplinary process". "There can be no place for racism in our game," he added. "No-one should have to experience what Azeem Rafiq went through in cricket, and we once again thank him for his courage in speaking out. "Since this hearing took place, the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket has published its report which demonstrates just how much there still is for our game to do in order to stamp out discrimination and become the inclusive sport we all want to be. "We recognise that Yorkshire County Cricket Club has made significant progress since Azeem came forward, first under Lord Patel's leadership and since then under its current management, and is committed to becoming an inclusive club." In its written reasons explaining why it arrived at the sanction, the CDC panel said: "The overall misconduct in this case must be regarded as extremely serious within both the sporting and wider societal contexts. "The message must be made clear to all who administer and who play the professional game, and to all those who administer cricket and who play elsewhere, that such conduct is wholly unacceptable and will not be tolerated." Yorkshire chief executive Stephen Vaughan said in March the club had a £3.5m shortfall and a need to repay £14.9m to the Graves Trust, one of its major creditors. The Headingley club's lawyer Daniel Stilitz KC asked the independent CDC panel to take into consideration the "detriment" Yorkshire has already "suffered". While Yorkshire said "there remains much to do" in the club's statement, they added that they had "made significant investments to put in place best practice processes and procedures". They added: "We look forward to continued dialogue with the ECB to ensure the financial penalty does not hinder our ongoing commitment to build on the strong foundations that have been laid. "We remain focused on efforts to secure YCCC's sustainability, ensuring the stability required to create a brighter future for all associated with Yorkshire Cricket." Yorkshire coach Ottis Gibson said "at least we know where we stand" over the points deduction. "We have four games left in the Championship this season," he said. "That's 96 points that we can play for. We'll try and win the next four games. That's all we're trying to do - win every game we play."
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Oct 11, 2023 19:07:06 GMT
Harry Chathli: Yorkshire appoint business leader as county's new chair..
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Harry Chathli takes over as chair of Yorkshire County Cricket Club from Tanni Grey-Thompson who has held the role on an interim basis for most of 2023Yorkshire have appointed Harry Chathli as the county's chair, taking over from interim chair Tanni Grey-Thompson. Grey-Thompson joined the board in May 2022 and was chair from January this year, but will continue to serve as a non-executive director. Chathli is appointed after a members vote at the club's extraordinary general meeting. "It's an honour and privilege to be appointed chair of one of the most iconic clubs," Chathli said. "Cricket is at an inflexion point with unprecedented growth reaching new audiences who are attracted by the variety of formats. Yorkshire has played its part in this growth within the men's cricket and has also been at the forefront of development of women's cricket in the country. I am also proud of the fact we are championing disability and LGBTQ+ cricket. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Tanni for her excellent stewardship of the club through a very challenging period this year." Grey-Thompson had initially been due to co-chair the club until Lord Patel stepped down in March. Patel was appointed in November 2021 after Roger Hutton resigned over the club's response to the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal. Chathli arrives at Headingley having had significant board experience in the communications industry as well as advising global companies, organisations and government agencies. "We are delighted to welcome Harry to the board and as chair at Yorkshire County Cricket Club," chief executive Stephen Vaughan said. "Harry brings strong business acumen and experience, and I am sure this positive impact that will benefit Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the Yorkshire family as a whole."
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Oct 11, 2023 19:09:10 GMT
Sir Michael Parkinson: Yorkshire pays tribute to TV legend..ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/640x360/p0g76gtd.jpgTributes have poured in from Sir Michael Parkinson's home county of Yorkshire following the death of the TV chat show legend, aged 88. Sir Michael, who was born in Cudworth, near Barnsley, died on Wednesday after a short illness, his family confirmed. During his 70-year career, "Parky" interviewed top names such as John Lennon, Muhammad Ali and George Best. Former cricket umpire and Yorkshire icon Dickie Bird, 90, said: "There'll never be another Parky." Though Sir Michael was one of the best known TV chat show hosts of all time, he described himself as a "scrubber". The son and grandson of miners, he wanted to follow a different path and yearned to become a cricketer for Yorkshire. He told the BBC: "That would've been everything. That would've been the entire cap on my life, to play for Yorkshire and get the white rose." Much more at the link below:www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-66533432
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Jan 9, 2024 6:50:21 GMT
Yorkshire defend process of finding new backers after criticism of Colin Graves' potential return..
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Graves originally pulled out of the running to be Yorkshire chair in June 2023Yorkshire have defended their process in finding new backers after claims Colin Graves' return would "undermine the progress" made in tackling racism. Graves was chair from 2012-2015, part of the period for which they were fined for failing to address the systemic use of racist or discriminatory language. He is in talks about a takeover, which charity Sporting Equals says would "make a mockery" of victims of racism. Yorkshire said "no stone has been left unturned" in a "rigorous process". "Yorkshire County Cricket Club and agents acting on our behalf have met with over 350 interested parties to work through the validity of each and every genuine offer to refinance the club," the club said. "No stone has been left unturned and a thorough and rigorous process has been conducted by the board to ensure the club stays operational for the benefit of its members, creditors and employees. "We refute any assertion to the contrary." Graves, who was also chair of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) between 2015 and 2020, said no racism allegations were raised to him during his tenure at Yorkshire. Last year, five ex-Yorkshire players found to have used racist language were sanctioned with fines and bans by the Cricket Discipline Commission. Former player Azeem Rafiq has spoken about his experiences of racism at the county. He has called on Yorkshire's sponsors to oppose Graves' return. Graves, 75, was criticised by the ECB for suggesting incidents of racism at the county were "banter". He has revealed his ownership offer for the cash-strapped county was accepted and his consortium was in exclusive negotiations until 5 January. His return could be confirmed if negotiations are successful and club members vote for his deal at an extraordinary general meeting. Last week, Clive Efford MP, a member of the Culture, Media and Sport (CMS) select committee, said Graves' return to the club would be "a disaster". Sporting Equals, a charity that promotes ethnic diversity in UK Sport, said in an open letter to sports minister Stuart Andrew: "Cricket has been making an effort to combat racism over the past few years. "Since Azeem Rafiq publicly exposed the deep systemic problems the ECB, among others, has taken action to address these issues. "However, the potential reinstatement of Colin Graves as chairman of Yorkshire County Cricket Club would undermine the progress made. "His reinstatement would send a message that emboldens those who perpetuate the myth that racism is simply banter, that it is enough to pay lip service to policies and procedures. "It would make a mockery of the suffering of ethnically diverse players across the country. It would be a rejection of the ICEC report's thorough investigation and well-considered conclusions. This progress must not be stunted." Sporting Equals also called for a five-point plan to be introduced into cricket, including bringing in a fit and proper persons test for prospective owners.
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Jan 9, 2024 6:53:04 GMT
Yorkshire cricket: MP says return to club for Colin Graves would be a 'disaster'..By Dan Roan, BBC sports editor.ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/6E78/production/_132208282_gettyimages-1146939766.jpgEx-Yorkshire chair Colin Graves' return to the club would be "a disaster", says a member of the Culture, Media and Sport (CMS) select committee. Graves has revealed his ownership offer was accepted and his consortium is in exclusive negotiations until 5 January. The 75-year-old was chairman from 2012 to 2015, part of the period Yorkshire was fined for failing to address the systemic use of racist or discriminatory language. Clive Efford MP said he felt "astonishment" at the "backward step". "This is not the way forward for cricket or Yorkshire. I hope the ECB recognises that and takes action," he told the BBC. If negotiations are successful, Graves is set for a controversial return if club members vote for his deal at an extraordinary general meeting. In further comments to the Press Association, Efford said the move was "a disaster for cricket if the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) allow it to happen". Graves has been approached for comment, while both Yorkshire and the ECB declined to comment. In 2021, Efford and other MPs on the committee heard emotional testimony from former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq about the racism he experienced at the county. Last year, five ex-Yorkshire players found to have used racist language were sanctioned with fines and bans by the Cricket Discipline Commission. The ECB initially withdrew Yorkshire's right to stage lucrative international matches at Headingley over their handling of the scandal, and only reinstated it after major governance changes were enacted. "I supported Yorkshire not being stripped of the Ashes Test match on the basis that they had taken major steps and seemed determined to move forward, but clearly I was mistaken," Efford said. Last year, the ECB criticised Graves for suggesting incidents of racism at the county were "banter". Graves, who was also chairman of the ECB itself between 2015 and 2020, said no racism allegations were raised to him during his three years in charge at the county. The ECB at the time said it was "disappointed" with his comments.
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Jan 10, 2024 23:36:26 GMT
Yorkshire: County side's board approves takeover by Colin Graves-led consortium..
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/5F3B/production/_129997342_gettyimages-690395726.jpgYorkshire's board has approved a controversial takeover for the cash-strapped club from a consortium headed up by former chairman Colin Graves. It means a deal for the county from the 75-year-old, who was chair of Yorkshire from 2012-2015, has moved closer. Graves' time at Yorkshire was part of the period for which the club was fined for failing to address the systemic use of discriminatory or racist language. The club's members will now vote on whether to approve the takeover. "The board of Yorkshire County Cricket Club has tonight agreed to recommend the loan agreement from Mr Colin Graves," the club said in a statement. "The club will be sending a notice to members tomorrow [Thursday, 11 January] ahead of an EGM [extraordinary general meeting] which will outline the details of the offer as well as the resolutions and rule changes that are required to be ratified by members at the EGM." The EGM will be held at least 21 days after it has been called. Graves has previously denied knowledge of any racist behaviour during his time at the club. However, he was criticised by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) last year after suggesting some incidents were "banter". Former Yorkshire player turned whistleblower Azeem Rafiq - who revealed he experienced racism at the county - has called on Yorkshire's sponsors to oppose Graves' return. Following the board's statement on Wednesday, Rafiq posted a message on social media which said "no longer my club" with a broken heart emoji. A club sponsor also previously said it was "reviewing the situation very closely". Alex Sobel, the Labour MP for Leeds North West, said: "Yorkshire County Cricket Club has admitted the racism prevalent at the club exposed by the brave testimony of Azeem Rafiq and rightly set up a whistleblowing helpline and investigation into the cases raised. "Mr Graves has dismissed what the club has admitted, describing it as banter. I am very concerned that we would lose the progress we have made under a return by Mr Graves and would need not just a statement recanting his views but full commitment to create a club for the whole community." Yorkshire has been seeking fresh investment since losing sponsors over its handling of the racism scandal, while it also had to agree compensation packages with sacked staff who won claims for unfair dismissal. The ECB initially withdrew Yorkshire's right to stage lucrative international matches at Headingley and only reinstated it after major governance changes were enacted. Last year, Yorkshire revealed it needed to repay £14.9m to the family trust owned by Graves, one of its major creditors since a financial bail-out in 2002. The club's management told staff that they were "seriously considering" the deal with Graves' consortium, having previously been linked with a rescue package from retail billionaire and former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley. It is expected that Graves would be reinstated as chairman. Charity Sporting Equals said his return would "make a mockery" of victims of racism. But Yorkshire insisted a "rigorous process" by the board had been conducted "to ensure the club stays operational".
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Post by lostinspace on Jan 11, 2024 18:04:11 GMT
Yorkshire: County side's board approves takeover by Colin Graves-led consortium..
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/5F3B/production/_129997342_gettyimages-690395726.jpgYorkshire's board has approved a controversial takeover for the cash-strapped club from a consortium headed up by former chairman Colin Graves. It means a deal for the county from the 75-year-old, who was chair of Yorkshire from 2012-2015, has moved closer. Graves' time at Yorkshire was part of the period for which the club was fined for failing to address the systemic use of discriminatory or racist language. The club's members will now vote on whether to approve the takeover. "The board of Yorkshire County Cricket Club has tonight agreed to recommend the loan agreement from Mr Colin Graves," the club said in a statement. "The club will be sending a notice to members tomorrow [Thursday, 11 January] ahead of an EGM [extraordinary general meeting] which will outline the details of the offer as well as the resolutions and rule changes that are required to be ratified by members at the EGM." The EGM will be held at least 21 days after it has been called. Graves has previously denied knowledge of any racist behaviour during his time at the club. However, he was criticised by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) last year after suggesting some incidents were "banter". Former Yorkshire player turned whistleblower Azeem Rafiq - who revealed he experienced racism at the county - has called on Yorkshire's sponsors to oppose Graves' return. Following the board's statement on Wednesday, Rafiq posted a message on social media which said "no longer my club" with a broken heart emoji. A club sponsor also previously said it was "reviewing the situation very closely". Alex Sobel, the Labour MP for Leeds North West, said: "Yorkshire County Cricket Club has admitted the racism prevalent at the club exposed by the brave testimony of Azeem Rafiq and rightly set up a whistleblowing helpline and investigation into the cases raised. "Mr Graves has dismissed what the club has admitted, describing it as banter. I am very concerned that we would lose the progress we have made under a return by Mr Graves and would need not just a statement recanting his views but full commitment to create a club for the whole community." Yorkshire has been seeking fresh investment since losing sponsors over its handling of the racism scandal, while it also had to agree compensation packages with sacked staff who won claims for unfair dismissal. The ECB initially withdrew Yorkshire's right to stage lucrative international matches at Headingley and only reinstated it after major governance changes were enacted. Last year, Yorkshire revealed it needed to repay £14.9m to the family trust owned by Graves, one of its major creditors since a financial bail-out in 2002. The club's management told staff that they were "seriously considering" the deal with Graves' consortium, having previously been linked with a rescue package from retail billionaire and former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley. It is expected that Graves would be reinstated as chairman. Charity Sporting Equals said his return would "make a mockery" of victims of racism. But Yorkshire insisted a "rigorous process" by the board had been conducted "to ensure the club stays operational". BIG bit of old boys act going on here, surely the ECB should call this in for transparency and clarity of what this new set up is going to do to about the rascist issues that went on beforehand and ensure that it doesn't occur again... already several are feeling a bit awkward about this new setup |
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Jan 11, 2024 18:13:36 GMT
Yorkshire: Colin Graves apologises 'personally and unreservedly' for racism scandal..By Jack Skelton, BBC Sport.ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/mcs/media/images/81790000/jpg/_81790538_colin_graves_getty4.jpgColin Graves has apologised for the Yorkshire racism scandal as he looks set to return to power at the club. A takeover deal from a consortium led by former chairman Graves has been approved by Yorkshire's board and will be voted on by members on 2 February. Graves' previous spell was part of the period for which the club was fined for failing to address the systemic use of discriminatory or racist language. "The mistakes must be acknowledged and acted upon," said Graves, 75. Graves, who was chair of Yorkshire between 2012 and 2015, has previously denied knowledge of any racist behaviour during his time at the club. He will return as chair if the takeover is approved by members. In a statement released on Thursday, he added: "I apologise personally and unreservedly to anyone who experienced any form of racism at Yorkshire County Cricket Club. "Discrimination or abuse based on race, ethnicity or any other protected characteristic is not and never will be acceptable." Former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq, who is calling on the club's sponsors to oppose Graves' return, detailed allegations of racism during his two spells at Headingley for the first time in 2020, leading to investigations by the club and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Last year, the ECB criticised Graves for suggesting some incidents of racism at the county were "banter". Graves' comments followed six former Yorkshire players being sanctioned with fines and bans by the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) after they were found to have used racist language at the club during Rafiq's time there from 2008-2014 and 2016-2018. "I profoundly regret some of the language I used when asked about the events that took place when I was chairman, at a time when I was no longer at the club," added Graves, who was ECB chair from 2015 to 2020. "I understand and sympathise with those who regarded my comments as dismissive or uncaring. "I am determined to do whatever is required to ensure Yorkshire County Cricket Club continues to reflect the communities it represents. The club cannot and will not succeed unless it is united in its commitment to meet the highest professional standards, on and off the field." Graves' return will save Yorkshire from a perilous financial position, with debts of £17m scheduled to be repaid by October. He will advance an unsecured loan of £1m to the club if the takeover is approved. He previously bailed out Yorkshire in 2002, with the county revealing last year it needed to repay £14.9m of that loan to the family trust owned by Graves. Yorkshire lost sponsors over its handling of the racism scandal and also had to agree compensation packages with sacked staff who won claims for unfair dismissal. The ECB initially withdrew Yorkshire's right to stage lucrative international matches at Headingley and only reinstated it after major governance changes were enacted under former chair Lord Patel. Yorkshire said it had "exhausted all other options" and that Graves' deal was "the only viable option it had to secure the financial future of the club". Graves will be joined on the board by former Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) president Phillip Hodson, Sanjay Patel, who recently left his post as managing director of The Hundred, and Sanjeev Gandhi, previously a non-executive director of the ECB. If Hodson, Patel and Gandhi are appointed then the new board will arrange further funding of up to £4m over a five-month period. Yorkshire also said they sought deals where the county would remain a members' club, which "had the effect of reducing the pool of prospective and viable investors". However, Graves is understood to be proposing to change Yorkshire from a members' club into a private limited company. upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a3/Yorkshire_County_Cricket_Club_logo.svg/150px-Yorkshire_County_Cricket_Club_logo.svg.pngA report by the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC), released last year, found racism, sexism, classism and elitism are "widespread" in English and Welsh cricket. Graves said he wanted to "make it clear" the club accept the finding of the ICEC report and its recommendations, adding the equality, diversity and inclusion work done by Yorkshire will continue if he returns as chair. "Yorkshire must be a club that is open and welcoming to everyone who shares a passion for the game, from every part of society," he added. The ECB said: "Considerable work has been carried out at Yorkshire - and across cricket more widely - in recent years to tackle discrimination and make the game more inclusive, and it is vital this continues. "We welcome Colin Graves' commitment to continue this work, his unreserved apology and acceptance of the findings of the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC). These words must be put into action if Yorkshire members approve this deal." Yorkshire were docked points in two competitions and fined by the CDC for their handling of the Rafiq racism scandal. The ECB said it has "significant powers" that can be used to hold Yorkshire to account "if it does not continue with the progress and reform we have seen over the last few years". Rafiq said on Tuesday it is "inevitable" the members will approve Graves' takeover but warned them to "be careful what you wish for in terms of his plan for the club". Charity Sporting Equals has said Graves' return would "make a mockery" of victims of racism, while Clive Efford MP, a member of the Culture, Media and Sport (CMS) select committee, has called it a "disaster".
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Jan 11, 2024 20:12:55 GMT
Yorkshire: Azeem Rafiq says Colin Graves' expected return has led to racist abuse..By Jack Skelton, BBC Sport.
ichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/3/2/8ac5ca13-a51c-44f6-9ba9-b3a1ecd2f723.jpgColin Graves' expected return as Yorkshire chairman "empowers" racists, says former player Azeem Rafiq. Yorkshire's board has approved a takeover deal from a consortium led by Graves, 75, that members will likely vote in favour of on 2 February. Graves' previous spell was part of the period for which the club was fined for failing to address the systemic use of discriminatory or racist language. "I'm broken," said Rafiq, who revealed experiences of racism at the club. "I'm struggling to understand how we've got here. It's a mix of emotions - a lot of anger and frustration." Yorkshire chief executive Stephen Vaughan told BBC Sport the club had to accept the Graves-led offer because of its "dire financial situation" and to ensure its work on improving equality, diversion and inclusion could continue. Graves, who was chair of Yorkshire between 2012 and 2015, will return to the role if his takeover is approved. He has previously denied knowledge of any racist behaviour during his time at the club but on Thursday apologised "personally and unreservedly" for the Yorkshire racism scandal. Speaking to BBC Yorkshire, Rafiq said: "I've woken up this morning to a barrage of abuse - racist, Islamophobic - this is what [Graves' return] empowers. "It empowers those idiots out there who feel they can be openly racist." Rafiq, who is calling on the club's sponsors to oppose Graves' return, detailed allegations of racism during his two spells at Headingley for the first time in 2020, leading to investigations by the club and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). "The abuse is incredibly triggering, I've taken a lot over the last three years and continue to take it," added Rafiq, who said racism he faced at Yorkshire left him "close to taking my own life". Rafiq said he has no hope Yorkshire members will vote against Graves' takeover. "Yorkshire members and Colin Graves are a match made in heaven, I hope they enjoy themselves," he said. Yorkshire are in a perilous financial position, with debts of £17m scheduled to be repaid by October. Last year the county revealed it needed to repay £14.9m to the family trust owned by Graves following a bailout in 2002. The club lost sponsors over its handling of the racism scandal and also had to agree compensation packages with sacked staff who won claims for unfair dismissal. Graves will advance an unsecured loan of £1m to Yorkshire if the takeover goes through and arrange further funding of up to £4m if certain appointments to the new board are approved. Rafiq said that may get Yorkshire through financial difficulties in the short term but questioned the longer term impact Graves' return will have on cricket. "It sends the message loud and clear to South Asians that cricket is not a welcoming and safe place for us," he said. ichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/3/2/a34ea61e-10f0-490a-8f0d-2eda6f28fe3e.jpg"For a long time I saw Yorkshire as my club, I no longer do." Last year, the ECB criticised Graves for suggesting some incidents of racism at the county were "banter". Graves' comments followed six former Yorkshire players being sanctioned with fines and bans by the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) after they were found to have used racist language at the club. In his statement, Graves, who was ECB chair from 2015 to 2020, said he "profoundly" regretted that language and he understood those who regarded his comments as "dismissive or uncaring". He also promised to continue the equality, diversity and inclusion work done by Yorkshire in recent years, with the ECB saying "these words must be put into action". Rafiq said if Graves "genuinely cared" then he could have reached out to him "at any point over the last three years". "There's got to be action here, words are not enough," added Rafiq.
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Feb 2, 2024 16:15:43 GMT
Yorkshire: Colin Graves-led takeover approved by county members..
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The Graves deal was approved by 88% of the Yorkshire members who votedYorkshire's members have approved a controversial takeover of the cash-strapped club by a consortium led by former chairman Colin Graves. It means the 76-year-old, who was chair of Yorkshire from 2012-2015, is set to return to the role. Graves' time at Yorkshire was part of the period for which the club was fined for failing to address the systemic use of discriminatory or racist language. The deal now needs approval from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). A special resolution at a heated extraordinary Yorkshire general meeting on Friday was passed with 746 votes in favour - 88% of the votes cast. Three associates of Graves - Phillip Hodson, Sanjay Patel and Sanjeev Gandhi - are also set be appointed to the board as non-executive directors.
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Mar 15, 2024 9:04:40 GMT
Darren Gough: Ex-England paceman steps down as Yorkshire managing director of cricket..
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Darren Gough stepped in at Yorkshire in the wake of the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal, after which 16 members of staff leftFormer England fast bowler Darren Gough has stepped down as managing director of cricket at Yorkshire. Gough, who played for Yorkshire for 15 years, took the role in December 2021 replacing Martyn Moxon. The 53-year-old had to negotiate the county through the fall-out from the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal, which saw 16 people leave the club at the end of 2021, including Moxon. "It's been an absolute honour to work for my boyhood club," Gough said. "Having stepped in at a very challenging time, we've worked hard to steady the ship and develop our cricket department to ensure we can return to the top tier of English cricket." Gough's initial arrival was on an interim basis, followed by a permanent appointment in November 2022. He said "rebuilding the club" and "rebuilding trust in the county's management" were his main aims. He was involved in the appointment of new staff such as Ottis Gibson as head coach, the overhaul of the men's squad, and also the continued development of the women's game notably in the shape of Hundred side Northern Diamonds. "The contribution he has made to stabilise the club and drive our playing squads forward has been critical and, I know that, as a Yorkshireman who lives and breathes this club, he has been so proud to carry out the role," chief executive Stephen Vaughan said. "The work that Darren has done over the last two seasons has built some fantastic foundations and we are very grateful for his time, commitment and the manner in which he has set about his role." Gough added: "We have achieved a great deal that I am proud of. The men's squad has been totally rebuilt with significant improvements behind the scenes across all support areas. "This has put both the men's team and the Northern Diamonds in a much better place to be able to compete going forward. "The performance pathway is thriving and continues to lead the way nationally, and there is a real energy around what is happening with the women's game and the next few years will be transformational I'm sure." Yorkshire begin their 2024 Championship season on 5 April at home against Leicestershire in Division Two.
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Mar 25, 2024 22:59:19 GMT
Harry Brook: Yorkshire batter available for start of County Championship season..
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Harry Brook was named England's best overall cricketer of 2023 by the Cricket Writers' Club
England batter Harry Brook has made himself available to Yorkshire for the start of the County Championship. The 25-year-old pulled out of the Test series in India after his grandmother Pauline became ill and then decided to withdraw from the Indian Premier League after she died. The White Rose start the new season at Headingley against Leicestershire on Friday, 5 April. Fellow England batter Joe Root could also feature in their early games. "Now that Brooky isn't going to the IPL, I suspect he's going to be available to us for the first few games, including Leicestershire," head coach Ottis Gibson told the club website. "He loves playing for us, and Rooty is also going to be available for some games in that early period. Having those two playing for us would be special." Brook has not played competitive cricket since the fifth T20 in the West Indies in December. England are next in action with a four-match T20 series against Pakistan at home, starting on 22 May, before Jos Buttler's side begin their T20 World Cup defence in the Caribbean on 4 June. Yorkshire are looking to win promotion back to Division One of the County Championship, having finished seventh of eight teams last year.
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Apr 8, 2024 19:05:01 GMT
Harry Brook: England batter hits century as Yorkshire draw with Leicestershire in County Championship..
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Harry Brook reached his fifty at Headingley off just 35 balls and needed another 33 balls to get to his centuryEngland's Harry Brook hit a stunning final-day 100 not out as Yorkshire and Leicestershire had to settle for an opening-round County Championship draw at Headingley. Brook arrived at the crease four balls into day four of this weather-ravaged Division Two fixture, overnight rain and a wet outfield once again delaying the start of play. Yorkshire started on 72-2 in their first-innings reply to Leicestershire's 354. George Hill fell caught off a miscue in the day's opening over, paving the way for Brook to come in and entertain the hardy 178 spectators who had waited patiently for play. Brook, 25, had not batted in a competitive fixture since playing for England in December. The death of his grandmother led to him pulling out of the Test series in India at the start of the year and opting not to play in the ongoing IPL. However, in the first of five Championship matches he has made himself available for, he smashed 14 fours and two sixes in 69 balls, with Yorkshire declaring immediately on 264-6 just before tea in order to improve a slow-over rate from the first innings. They did this successfully as spinners Dan Moriarty and Adam Lyth raced through 7.2 overs before the rain arrived at 4pm with Leicestershire on 26-0 in their second innings. No more play was possible, with Yorkshire taking 12 points and Leicestershire 13. ichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/4/8/ac574acc-06c4-49bb-b7e9-fd99c835ff12.jpg
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bluetornados
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Post by bluetornados on Oct 8, 2024 18:32:11 GMT
Yorkshire appoint ex-captain Anthony McGrath as head coach..by Adam Lanigan and Victoria Polley, BBC Sporti2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article33845268.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200d/0_GettyImages-2155503647.jpgAnthony McGrath is taking over at Yorkshire Yorkshire have appointed former captain Anthony McGrath as their new head coach on a five-year deal. McGrath leaves Essex after nine seasons as assistant coach, head coach and, more recently, director of cricket. He is returning to Headingley where he spent his entire playing career, winning the County Championship in 2001 and playing for England in four Tests and 14 One-Day Internationals. McGrath takes over from Ottis Gibson, who guided the White Rose to promotion back into County Championship Division One last month. He will officially take up his new position on 1 November. "During the past nine years with Essex, Anthony has proved himself to be one of the most exciting and successful coaches in English cricket," said Yorkshire's interim chief executive officer, Sanjay Patel. "He is renowned for his team's attractive, attacking cricket, supporting and developing world-class talent, and commitment to youth." Former all-rounder McGrath, 49, played 242 first-class matches for Yorkshire and captained the side between 2008 and 2009. As a middle-order batter, he was a key member of the side that ended the White Rose's 33-year wait to be crowned county champions again in 2001. After retiring in 2012, he went on to become a coaching consultant for Yorkshire, but it is his work at Essex since then that has won him so many plaudits. "I know the history of this great club and the passion of the members and supporters - and I am absolutely determined to develop a team capable of delivering the success they deserve," McGrath said, of his Yorkshire return.
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