36 people contact Yorkshire Cricket Club whistleblowing hotline in first week
It was set up in response to bullying and harassment suffered by former player Azeem Rafiq
Last updated 22nd Nov 2021
An independent whistleblowing hotline set up by Yorkshire County Cricket Club has been contacted by 36 individuals in its first week of operating.
The email address was set up in response to a racism row at the club, brought to light by former player Azeem Rafiq.
All complaints will be reviewed by Mohinderpal Sethi QC of Littleton Chambers, who has been appointed to lead the independent investigation process.
His team will then contact all individuals who have contacted the hotline.
Professor The Lord Patel of Bradford OBE, Chair of Yorkshire County Cricket Club, said: “It is essential that those who have experienced or witnessed racism, discrimination and abuse are able to come forward to share their experiences. I thank all of those who have contacted the hotline so far.
“Lasting and authentic change, particularly in the face of a complex and systemic issue, takes consideration and time, and cannot happen without the voices of those who have suffered. Only through committing to listen, and to believe, those who have bravely shared their experiences – and those still to do so – can we truly understand the scale of the issue”.
Mohinderpal Sethi QC
Mohinderpal Sethi QC, who has been appointed to lead the independent investigation, has over 25 years of experience, acting for a wide range of clients.
Previous discrimination cases include a high profile sports investigation into complaints by Olympic gymnasts earlier this year and race discrimination cases involving a Police commissioner in 2007.
He said: “I welcome the opportunity to lead this important independent investigation process. Those who report their complaints to the Whistleblowing Hotline should feel reassured that these matters will be addressed in a careful and impartial manner.”