The England Cricket Board (ECB) announced its support for the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement at the start of the England - West Indies test series. The announcement shows how quickly society can follow trends without the requisite commitment necessary for societal change. Though, it may be very early for judgements, given that international cricket made a return professionally after a pandemic-forced break a few months ago. Cricket fans and BLM supporters may be reluctant to trust claims that change is coming given the racist experiences of players making headlines.

There is a clear lack of acknowledgment or accountability for racism from both cricketers and senior officials with decision-making capacities. This, in turn, creates uncertainty regarding the future of diversity and inclusion in cricket. Open conversations about the prevalence of racism in addition to thorough investigations may help in improving the sport’s culture.  

BLM EDUCATION

Legendary cricketer Michael Holding gave an emotional speech prior to the beginning of the first test match between West Indies and England—the first game in international cricket for months. Holding heavily advocated for recognition of the BLM movement and called for action against racism. He stated that teaching both sides of history is essential and it is currently lacking. He also stated that the dehumanisation of the Black race is not just a thing of the past but is still ingrained in society. Racism in cricket is not limited to the international scene—the reality of racism in the county system is now also coming to light. 

RACISM IN COUNTY CRICKET

There are currently no Black officials in decision-making positions in England Cricket, nor is there proportional representation of Black players in county teams. Former county cricketers Azeem Rafiq and Rana Naveed have come forward about their experiences of racism from teammates and fans at the Yorkshire County Cricket Club. 

Rafiq has been vocal about fans and teammates spewing racist slurs.  He has discussed times whereby teammates laughed at racist jokes in addition to fans taunting him at games. These experiences made Rafiq feel marginalised, putting him on the brink of suicide. Moreover, during Rafiq’s time with Yorkshire, his first child was stillborn. Shortly afterwards, Yorkshire released him even though they said they would support him during this time. Rafiq came forward in an interview and stated that Yorkshire is a racist club incapable of change.

Naveed recently came forward and confirmed Rafiq’s claims, whilst also revealing the abuse he was subjected to as a player of Asian descent. However, Naveed did not complain during his playing days as he did not want to jeopardise his international contract. 

Yorkshire has since hired a law firm to investigate the claims. However, former Yorkshire head and retired cricketer Geoffrey Boycott has labelled the club’s response a disgrace. The law firm hired is a previous employer of the current Yorkshire Cricket Director—leading to serious questions regarding the transparency and impartiality of the investigations. 

RACISM ON THE INTERNATIONAL SCENE 

Racism in cricket is not exclusive to the UK. Racism is apparent across the globe and can also be seen in cricketing heavyweights, Australia and South Africa. The treatment of Indigenous cricketers, such as Dan Christian in Australia, has recently come to light following the growth of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. In response to these revelations, Cricket Australia has now created a three-part series addressing racism in Australia and celebrating Indigenous cultures and multiculturalism in the country.  

As South Africa comes to terms with apartheid, the fight for equality in cricket remains ever-present. This is evident by former white cricketers Pat Symcox and Boeta Dippenaar, who grew up during the apartheid era, criticising Black South African cricketer Lung Ngidi for supporting the BLM movement. Though, encouragingly, the South African Cricketer’s Association (SACA) has signalled support for Ngidi’s stance.

A declaration of commitment to the BLM cause at the start of the England - West Indies series was a sign that change is coming across the international cricketing system. As players from around the world come forward with their experiences, impartial investigations and acknowledgements will be key to ensuring that the system is committed to change. The reformation of county cricket in the UK will be dependent upon an inclusive culture with non-white players and officials in the coming years. Support and infrastructure may be key to ensuring talents like Rafiq’s are not lost as a result of a fractured system. Fans also hold a social responsibility in supporting players rather than crossing a line in stadiums. Only time will tell if cricket treats Black Lives Matter as just a phrase or embraces the movement as a means to equality. 

Jibran is a fourth year Law and Economics student at the University of Canberra (UC), with a growing passion in International Law. He hopes to make a difference through developing a portfolio of written content alongside pursuing a career as a legal practitioner.

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