UK equalities authority to probe Yorkshire cricket racism row

Former cricket player Azeem Rafiq was found to have been racially abused and bullied by teammates. (File/Reuters)

• Investigation announced after former player Azeem Rafiq was bullied, racially harassed
• Another Muslim cricketer alleges teammates discussed desecrating prayer mat

LONDON: The British Equality and Human Rights Commission is set to investigate Yorkshire County Cricket Club over a growing racial row, which erupted after former player Azeem Rafiq was found to have been racially abused and bullied by teammates.
The commission warned that it was “deeply concerned” by the incidents, and that it had written to the club to request a copy of its internal investigation, which controversially concluded that the events amounted to “friendly banter” between players.
The England and Wales Cricket Board on Thursday suspended the club from hosting major matches, labeling its handling of the investigation as “wholly unacceptable.”
Yorkshire are also investigating separate claims by another Muslim player who alleged that teammates discussed desecrating a prayer mat.
EHRC CEO Marcial Boo said in a statement: “As Britain’s equality regulator, we are deeply concerned about the incidents of racism at Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
“We have written to ask for more information, including a full copy of their investigation report, to determine if there has been a breach of the law. We will take action if so.”
He added: “All employers have a duty to protect their employees from bullying and harassment.”