‘Harrowing’ results of inquiry into racism in Bristol cricket clubs

An inquiry by the Mayoral Commission on Race Equality (CoRE) into reports of racism in cricket has identified a number of serious issues in the sport on a local level.

The chair of the Commission has said the inquiry into reports of racism at Bristol’s crickets clubs has made for “harrowing reading”.

CoRE initially submitted findings of its inquiry into reports of racism in cricket to the national Independent Commission on Equity in Cricket (ICEC) in April 2022.

CoRE’s inquiry was part of a number of local inquiries that would contribute to an investigation into cricket on a national level.

The inquiry found that:

• People from minority backgrounds were leaving the game due to their experiences of racism
• There is a fear amongst Black, Asian or other minority ethnic background communities of sharing their experiences
• There is a sense that non-white clubs are treated differently to predominantly white clubs
• There are concerns about unfit practices and procedures in recreational cricket for handling complaints.

The commission researched and interviewed people involved at all levels of cricket, from regional managers to clubs to the players themselves.

It comes in the aftermath of a high-profile case of racism brought against Yorkshire County Cricket by former professional cricketer Azeem Rafiq.

Speaking about next steps, Museji Ahmed Takolia CBE, chair of the commission said: “A focus on the younger generations is required to stamp out these micro-aggressions that transfer from generation to generation within clubs. It is fair to say that our initial findings have shocked the game’s leaders and administrators.”

The commission has suggested a number of actions to address the issues found in the inquiry, based around the idea of an open dialogue with local clubs and regional organisers to find a way to offer opportunities to introduce “resolute action towards positive change.”

Syd Lawrence became the new president of Gloucestershire Cricket Club in April – becoming one of the first black presidents of any county cricket club – photo: Gloucestershire Cricket Club

While CoRE have released their findings, the ICEC may not publish its report until early 2023. Locally however, CoRE has already made steps to combat the issues raised, working with the Bristol & District Cricket Association (B&D) and the West of England Premier League (WEPL).

“We hope to connect clubs with local community organisations to address issues around diversity and inclusion, not only for players but also for leadership and administration in the sport,” said Museji Ahmed Takolia.

“The examples summarised for the ICEC from our first evidence gathering sessions with players and clubs make for harrowing reading and further reinforces the need for the ICEC’s inquiry.”

Despite the issues raised however, CoRE say the response from the cricket leadership has been encouraging.

The commission highlighted positive changes that had been made since the report, such as the appointment of David “Syd” Lawrence as the President of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, who became one of the first black presidents of any county cricket club.

It also praised the African Caribbean Engagement (ACE) programme, which supports diverse sporting talent across a manner of identity barriers with the aim of creating a diverse community from players to coaches at the recreational and professional game.

Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation also launched their “GRACE” campaign earlier this year, an anti-discrimination campaign which aims to combat racism in their club.

Main photo: Acabashi

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