Rich Pyrah Returns to Yorkshire as Women's Head Coach After Racism Scandal

Rich Pyrah, who was dismissed from Yorkshire County Cricket Club in 2021 amidst the racism scandal, has been reinstated as the club's women's head coach. Pyrah, who previously served as the men's batting coach, was found guilty of using racist and discriminatory language by the Cricket Discipline Commission. He received a two-week coaching ban and a £2,500 fine.

Pyrah was among the 16 staff members who were sacked after signing a letter to the Yorkshire board accusing whistleblower Azeem Rafiq of attempting to "bring down the club" with his allegations of institutional racism. Yorkshire and Pyrah reached a settlement in 2022, with the club acknowledging that his dismissal was "procedurally unfair."

Yorkshire's announcement of Pyrah's appointment as women's head coach made no mention of his previous dismissal. Club chairman Colin Graves expressed enthusiasm for Pyrah's return, stating that he was the "right person to lead Yorkshire into the club's new chapter."

Pyrah expressed his pride in being appointed to the role, emphasizing the exciting time for women's cricket following the ECB's restructuring of the professional game. Yorkshire will compete in Tier 2 of the ECB's revamped domestic structure next year, with the aim of becoming a Tier 1 county from 2026 onwards.

Pyrah's appointment has sparked mixed reactions. Some have welcomed his return, citing his proven development skills and winning mentality. Others have expressed concerns about the message it sends regarding the club's commitment to addressing racism.

Tags: #YorkshireCCC, #RichPyrah, #RacismScandal, #WomensCricket, #ECBRestructure