CRICKET chiefs at Worcestershire CCC have called for ‘immediate action’ after a report which revealed racism, sexism, classism and elitism are ‘widespread’ within the sport.
The Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) delivered its findings from a two-year investigation.
The ICEC has made 44 recommendations, including the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) makes an unreserved public apology for its failings.
New Road bosses welcomed the ‘comprehensive’ report and paid tribute to all those who came forward to share their experiences.
While the report does not specifically name any clubs or individuals, it offers wide-ranging recommendations for the entire game.
The club said it maintained an unwavering stance of zero tolerance towards any form of discrimination or prejudice
Bosses said the club would thoroughly examine the report and its findings, in conjunction with the 44 recommendations.
Fanos Hira, Worcestershire County Cricket Club chair, said: “This is an important day for cricket, and as a club, we need to consider all of the reports’ findings and recommendations and take immediate action.
“The whole game needs to move forward together and address all of the issues with haste.
“There is a great deal we can achieve together as a collective, working towards the ECB’s correct aim of making cricket the most inclusive sport in the country and the game will be closely judged on it’s actions from this point forward.
“Worcestershire County Cricket Club is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.”
The statement continued: “The club wholeheartedly acknowledges the need for continued changes in Worcestershire and cricket as a whole, to reaffirm and enhance its inclusivity and accessibility.
“This includes confidential one-on-one discussions to address whistleblowing concerns, training sessions on understanding barriers within cricket pathways and the impact of unconscious bias, specialised training for stewards to detect and address abusive crowd behaviour, and anti-discrimination training for all staff members.
“Additionally, eight senior staff members have been identified as EDI Leaders within the organisation and are actively participating in an Inclusive Leadership Program, and at New Road, extensive efforts have been made to enhance facilities and ensure greater accessibility.”
