Six former Yorkshire cricketers found guilty of racism, face hefty sanctions

The Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) on Friday found six former Yorkshire cricketers guilty of racism levying a total of £22,000 fine.

Charges were upheld against Tim Bresnan, John Blain, Matthew Hoggard, Andrew Gale, Richard Pyrah while former England captain Michael Vaughan was cleared in March of using racist language.

The issue came to light in 2021 after former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq alleged that he was the victim of institutional racism at the club.

Gary Ballance, who retired from cricket last month, admitted to the use of racist language back in 2021 so he did not attend the hearing.

The cricketers were charged by the England and Wales Cricket Board after a CDC panel heard the case. They were fined varying levels of fines as well as temporary bans from participating in matches or coaching.

Ballance was facing an £8,000 fine and an eight-week ban, but his sanction has been reduced to £3,000 and a six-match ban.

Former Yorkshire captain and head coach Gale has been handed the biggest fine of £6,000 (down from the £7,500 the ECB asked for) and a four-week suspension from coaching.

Ex-England internationals Matthew Hoggard and Tim Bresnan (banned for three matches) have each been fined £4,000 (down from the £7,500 and £5,000 originally proposed).

John Blain also sees his fine reduced from £5,000 to just £3,000 while Richard Pyrah has been slapped with a two-week suspension and a £2,500 penalty.

All individuals have until June 9 to appeal the decisions.

All six have been reprimanded and asked to undertake an appropriate racism/discrimination education course at their own expense, particularly if they intend to return to cricket in any playing or coaching capacity.

Yorkshire, who have admitted to four breaches of ECB Directive 3.3 and have not taken part in the CDC hearings, face a sanctioning hearing on June 27.