Nadine Osman

Yorkshire County Cricket Club has signed the Muslim Athlete Charter on June 9 in an illustration of its “commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion for all”.

The move comes just one month after the Cricket Discipline Commission sanctioned the club with fines and bans after finding six former Yorkshire CCC players had used racist language and, following the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal. The pledge recognises “the needs of Muslim cricketers, fans and staff”.

Yorkshire admitted four amended charges stemming from Rafiq’s claims and will be given their sanctions in late June. The sanctions resulting from Yorkshire’s four charges from the England and Wales Cricket Board will be discussed at a hearing on June 27.

Yorkshire Chief Executive, Stephen Vaughan, said signing the charter is “an important and positive step”.
The club added it is the start of the county being fully accredited with the Nujum Sports Athlete Charter and that all Yorkshire CCC and Northern Diamonds coaches and players have taken part in an educational workshop.

“By understanding the faith and cultural needs of our Muslim players, staff and fans, we can help to create an open and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated,” said Vaughan.
Ebadur Rahman, CEO for Nujum Sports, said: “On signing the charter, Yorkshire Cricket is joining a positive movement of solidarity, equality and recognition of the contribution Muslims make in their respective clubs and teams.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan was cleared “on the balance of probabilities” by the panel of using racist language towards Rafiq.