Alleged racism at Yorkshire County Cricket Club "probably unlawful"

Britain's equality watchdog says it's considering taking legal action against Yorkshire County Cricket Club, if it doesn't tackle discrimination

It's after allegations made by former player Azeem Rafiq, who says he was bullied and harassed during two spells there.

On Tuesday, the chief executive of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), Marcial Boo said: “The accounts of racism and discrimination at Yorkshire County Cricket Club were upsetting and deeply concerning.

"Sports are meant to bring people of all backgrounds together. Racism has no place in any sport, business or society.

"We have now reviewed the documentation and we consider it likely that an unlawful act has taken place."

Praise for new management

The statement released by the EHRC went on to praise new management at the club, which has taken steps to address the complaints made by Azeem Rafiq and former academy players.

It's welcomed a 12 point action plan between Yorkshire and the England and Wales Cricket Board, however has warned it could take the court if the plan failed to tackle discrimination.

Boo said: "We will therefore be monitoring the club’s action plan closely and we reserve the right to take legal action if the action plan isn’t implemented properly.

“We aim to work with the England and Wales Cricket Board and the regulators of other sports to ensure that all those participating, whether for fun, fitness, or as professionals, are not subjected to discrimination and harassment.”

Last month, former chairman Roger Hutton stepped down, following intense criticism of the club's handling of racism complaints.

A week later, Mark Arthur resigned as chief executive.

That was followed by the departure of the club's entire coaching team, which new executive Lord Kamlesh Patel said was "in the best interests of the club".

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