Cricket

England Women's cricket captain Heather Knight has been reprimanded and fined £1000 by the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) for a photo of her in blackface from 2012. The photo, taken at a fancy-dress party, was deemed as racist and discriminatory conduct.Knight, who was 21 at the time, promptly accepted the charges and apologized for her conduct. She stated that she was not aware of the implications of her actions at the time and that she deeply regrets her mistake.The CDC accepted that Knight did not post the photo on social media herself and has no control over how it has been posted. However, the commission reiterated that the photo was "plainly prejudicial to the interests of cricket, brought the game and Ms Knight into disrepute, and undermined the ECB's strategic objective of eradicating discrimination from the sport."Knight's fine is suspended for two years pending her future conduct. The CDC stated that this is a specific case and is unlikely to set a precedent. The commission took into account Knight's lack of previous disciplinary issues, her unpaid ambassadorial work around diversity and inclusion, and her completion of the Professional Cricketers' Association's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion training in 2021.Dave Lewis, interim director of the Cricket Regulator, said: "Cricket is working to become a more inclusive sport and the Cricket Regulator is committed to acting positively and impartially whenever racist behavior is reported to us.""In this case, Ms Knight's behavior was discriminatory and offensive, however the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) accepted there was no racist intent in her conduct. I welcome her acknowledgment of the potential impact of her behavior, and her unreserved apology."Knight has expressed her commitment to using her platform to promote inclusivity in cricket and ensure that underrepresented groups are afforded the same opportunities as others.

Trudy Lindblade, a seasoned sports administrator, has taken on the daunting task of leading Cricket Scotland through a period of turmoil and rebuilding. Despite the organization's recent history of racism and sexism allegations, Lindblade is determined to navigate the challenges and restore its reputation.Lindblade's journey to Cricket Scotland began after overseeing the successful UCI Cycling World Championships in Glasgow. However, she quickly realized the complexities of her new role, which has been marked by ongoing legal and human rights issues.One of Lindblade's first tasks was to address the McKinney Report, which revealed a culture of sexism and misogyny within Scottish cricket. She acknowledges the shock of the report's findings but emphasizes that Cricket Scotland is committed to addressing these issues.The organization has also faced allegations of racism, including from former Scotland seamer John Blain and retired player Hamza Tahir. Lindblade stresses that Cricket Scotland is open to dialogue and mediation to resolve these cases fairly.Despite the challenges, Lindblade is optimistic about the future of Scottish cricket. She is working on a four-year strategy that prioritizes women and girls, equality, and rebuilding trust. While not ruling out a future push for Full Membership, Lindblade believes the organization must first establish a solid foundation.Lindblade's experience in sports administration, including her work at the Carlton Australian Football Club and Cricket Australia, has prepared her for the challenges ahead. She draws on her strong character and the support of male leaders who have given her opportunities.Lindblade recognizes the importance of female leadership in cricket and is part of a group of female CEOs among Associate Members. She believes that women can bring different perspectives and empathy to leadership roles.As Cricket Scotland works to move forward, Lindblade acknowledges the ongoing hurt and anger but emphasizes the need for self-awareness and unity. She believes that the strategy will provide a path forward and that the organization can emerge from this period stronger than ever.

Cricket Scotland faces yet another legal challenge as Hamza Tahir, a 28-year-old left-arm spinner, announces his retirement from international cricket, citing allegations of racism and discrimination within the organization. Tahir's retirement statement reveals a pattern of systemic bias against players of color, including himself.Tahir, who has represented Scotland in 48 matches, claims that a fellow South Asian player informed him that to succeed in the Scotland set-up, "you have to perform twice as well." Despite his impressive record, including 63 wickets, Tahir was excluded from the squad for the recent T20 World Cup and removed from Cricket Scotland's list of contracted players in March.Tahir's grievances extend beyond his own experiences. He alleges that a senior coach used racial slurs during a national tour in 2020. He also highlights the lack of opportunities for players of color in major international events, stating that he felt "held back" and prevented from showcasing his abilities on the world stage.Tahir's retirement comes amidst ongoing turmoil at Cricket Scotland. Two years ago, an independent review found the organization to be institutionally racist, prompting the resignation of the entire board. Despite the "Changing the Boundaries" report identifying 448 instances of racism and discrimination, only five have progressed to disciplinary procedures.Cricket Scotland has been embroiled in a recent dispute with another former player, John Blain, who claims he was exonerated of racist behavior allegations but later accused the board of attempting to revise history.In response to Tahir's retirement, Cricket Scotland expressed sympathy for those who have experienced discrimination and thanked him for his contributions to the national team. However, the organization emphasized the need for independent mediation to achieve reconciliation and heal the wounds caused by ongoing instability and recrimination.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has strongly condemned former Pakistani cricketer Kamran Akmal for his derogatory remarks about Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh during the high-octane India-Pakistan clash in New York on Sunday. Singh, a Sikh, was subjected to online abuse and trolling after he dropped a crucial catch in the match, leading to Akmal's insensitive comments.Harbhajan, known for his outspoken nature, labeled Akmal as "Nalaayak" (worthless) for his "racist" remarks. He emphasized that such transgressions should never be repeated, as they not only hurt individuals but also damage the spirit of sportsmanship."This is an utterly absurd statement and an incredibly childish act that only a 'Nalaayak' individual can perpetrate," Harbhajan said in an interview with ANI. "Kamran Akmal must comprehend that there is no necessity to comment on or mock anyone's religion."Harbhajan went on to remind Akmal of the historical contributions made by Sikhs in protecting the Pakistani community. "I would like to inquire of Kamran Akmal whether he is aware of the history of Sikhs, their identity, and the myriad contributions Sikhs have made to safeguard your community, your mothers, and sisters," he said.Akmal, facing widespread backlash for his comments, issued a public apology on Tuesday. However, Harbhajan stressed that such apologies should not be taken lightly. "It is commendable that he swiftly realized his error and apologized, but he should never again attempt to offend any Sikh or any religion," he said.The incident has sparked outrage and condemnation from various quarters, including the Sikh community. Many have called for Akmal to be held accountable for his actions and for the promotion of religious harmony in sports.

Former Pakistan cricketer Ijaz Ahmed has sparked controversy with his derogatory remarks about the Pashtun community in Pakistan. During a discussion on Pakistan cricket on ARY News, Ahmed made disparaging comments about the education and work ethic of Pashtun players."Look at the [Pakistan] cricket team now, 80% of it has gone to remote areas like KP (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa). If you select a team right now, 6-8 players are Pathans, who do not have education. They wake up in the morning to go for namaz with their relatives or brothers and return back, and then they don't leave their homes after that. When there is pressure on them [during matches], they cannot handle it," Ahmed said.Ahmed's comments drew swift condemnation from the Pakistan cricket community. Salman Iqbal, founder and CEO of ARY DIGITAL Network, distanced himself from the remark, stating that it was not acceptable by ARY management. Former Pakistan player Junaid Khan also called for Ahmed to apologize.The social media was full of other strong reaction too. Many users condemned Ahmed's comments as racist and discriminatory. Some users also pointed out that Ahmed's comments were particularly insensitive given Pakistan's recent defeat against India in the T20 World Cup.Ahmed's comments have sparked a wider debate about ethnic discrimination in Pakistan. Some commentators have argued that Ahmed's comments reflect a deep-seated prejudice against Pashtuns in Pakistani society. Others have argued that Ahmed's comments were simply a reflection of his personal views and do not represent the views of the majority of Pakistanis.Regardless of Ahmed's intentions, his comments have caused significant harm to the Pashtun community in Pakistan. They have also damaged the reputation of Pakistan cricket and raised questions about the country's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

John Blain, the former Scotland and Yorkshire fast bowler, has called for a "full and transparent inquiry" into the country's cricket authorities after being cleared of racist behavior allegations. Blain was accused by former teammates Majid Haq and Qasim Sheikh of using a racist slur during a tour of Kenya in 2007.Following a year-long investigation, the allegations against Blain were dismissed. However, Cricket Scotland and sportscotland failed to make the findings public. Blain has now criticized the process and his accusers, questioning the legitimacy of the ECB sanction imposed on him based on the same allegations.Blain expressed disbelief that Haq and Sheikh would make such accusations, given his support for them throughout their careers. He also highlighted the contradictory evidence of four other witnesses that contradicted Haq's account.Blain's case is one of several that stemmed from an independent review in July 2022 that found Cricket Scotland to be institutionally racist. The review led to the resignation of the board. However, the vast majority of incidents cited in the review have also been dismissed.Blain has called for a full inquiry to address the "kangaroo court" handling of his case and the broader issues of racism in Scottish cricket. He believes that Cricket Scotland is "running scared" of the "anti-racist" cabal that has influenced the sport.An ECB spokesperson defended the CDC process, stating that Blain had been given every opportunity to defend himself. However, Blain maintains that the process was flawed and that the ECB's verdict against him is now unsafe.

Former Indian cricket team spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan has recently faced a racist remark on social media, to which he responded with a powerful statement. Sivaramakrishnan posted a picture of himself from the Ayyappan temple in Mahalingapuram, Tamil Nadu, which included an elephant. A user commented, "Hii sir that elephant is more visible in night than you."Sivaramakrishnan responded with dignity and assertiveness, stating, "Yes I am dark" and adding, "It's a temple festival and you people are so cheap." The user made further comments, which were later deleted.Sivaramakrishnan's response has been widely praised for its strength and grace. It highlights the ongoing issue of racism in society and the importance of standing up against it.In a separate incident, Sivaramakrishnan expressed his disappointment with the treatment he received from veteran Indian cricket team spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. Sivaramakrishnan claimed that Ashwin disconnected his calls and did not reply to his congratulatory messages on his 100th Test milestone."Tried calling him a few times to wish him for his 100th Test. Just cut off my call. Sent him a message, no reply. That's the respect we former cricketers get," Sivaramakrishnan wrote on social media.Meanwhile, in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming praised Rachin Ravindra for his impressive debut performance against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Ravindra scored 37 runs off just 15 balls, including three fours and three sixes.Fleming emphasized the importance of encouraging players to play to their strengths and creating a comfortable environment for them. He also praised Ravindra's ability to handle the pressure of his debut match.

Darren Gough, the former Yorkshire and England fast bowler, has stepped down as the club's managing director of cricket after two seasons in the role. Gough took on the position in an interim capacity in December 2021, following the Azeem Rafiq racism crisis that led to the departure of several senior figures at the club.During his tenure, Gough oversaw the appointment of Ottis Gibson as head coach and implemented a number of changes to the playing squad as Yorkshire sought to rebuild. He also played a key role in the development of the club's performance pathway and the growth of the women's game."It's been an absolute honor to work for my boyhood club over the last two seasons," 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.""In my time here, 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.""Following conversations with the club, I have decided now is the right time to step away from my role and give someone else an opportunity to take our playing squads forward. I'd like to thank all of our players, staff, members, and fans for their considerable support over the last few seasons and wish them all the very best for the coming year.""I will always be a Yorkshire Cricket supporter and look forward to returning to watch our teams in the coming years."Stephen Vaughan, Chief Executive Officer for YCCC, said: "It's been an absolute pleasure to work with Darren since taking on this role.""The contribution he has made to stabilize 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.""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."Colin Graves, Chair of YCCC, said: "I'd like to express our sincere thanks to Darren for the work he has put in over the last few seasons.""Darren is a club legend in his own right, having enjoyed two very successful stints as a player here and now helped us through some very difficult times in his role as managing director of cricket. Everyone at the club would like to wish him all the best for the future, and we look forward to welcoming him back to Headingley again soon."