Class-based discrimination, racism & sexism plague English cricket, reports independent panel

The highly-anticipated report released on Monday by the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) spoke at length about structural inequalities plaguing English cricket.

From racism to class-based discrimination and sexism, the 317-page report 'Holding Up a Mirror to Cricket', relied on evidence from more than 4000 respondents since the commission was constituted in 2020.

Among its findings, racism was 'entrenched' in the English game, women were treated as 'second-class citizens', and cricket was a rare option in state schools.

The report then went on to state that complaints were not paid heed to as the system was confusing and not fit for purpose.

Calling for rapid reforms, the report submitted 44 recommendations and a number of sub-recommendations.

In the first recommendation, the ICEC report demanded a public apology from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for its own failings and those of the game it governs.

It also asked the governing body to 'acknowledge that racism, sexism, elitism and class-based discrimination have existed, and still exist, in the game, and recognise the impact on victims of discrimination.'

Among the most prominent suggestions, the ICEC recommended equal pay for women cricketers, calling it a fundamental overhaul.

It asked for the implementation at domestic level by 2029 and international level by 2030.

It also paid careful attention to school cricket that has a history of discrimination as elite, private schools and their clubs have been given precedence over state schools.

The preferences do play a role in obstructing good talent from reaching their potential. It called for an immediate reform and make it more meritocratic, inclusive, accountable, transparent and consistent.

Another important recommendation was the creation of a regulatory body separate from the governing England and Wales Cricket Board.

It said, 'The new regulatory body, not the ECB, should be responsible for investigating alleged regulatory breaches and for making decisions about whether to bring charges,' adding that breaches should include anti-discrimination rules.

The ECB said some reforms could be 'implemented swiftly' but others would require 'fundamental, longer-term changes to cricket in England and Wales, and its funding model.'