Ex-Yorkshire spinner Azeem Rafiq has claimed that “institutional racism” on the membership left him near taking his personal life.
Yorkshire have stated they’re involved with Rafiq, who left the membership in 2018 and not performs professionally.
“I used to be residing my household’s dream as knowledgeable cricketer, however inside I used to be dying,” he stated.
“I understand how shut I used to be [to taking his own life] throughout my time at Yorkshire.
“I used to be dreading going to work. I used to be in ache on daily basis. There have been instances I did issues to attempt to slot in that, as a Muslim, I now look again on and remorse. I am not happy with it in any respect.
“However as quickly as I finished making an attempt to slot in, I used to be an outsider. Do I believe there’s institutional racism? It is at its peak in my view. It is worse than it is ever been.”
In response, Yorkshire stated in an announcement issued to BBC Sport: “The membership has an Equality and Variety Committee, chaired by board member Hanif Malik. Hanif is involved with Azeem in regards to the allegations and can report again to the committee.”
Regardless of assembly the membership, Rafiq is sceptical as as to whether significant change will occur following his experiences.
“Yorkshire do not need to pay attention they usually do not need to change,” he added.
“And a part of the rationale for that’s the individuals who had been concerned within the incidents I am speaking about are nonetheless on the membership. They only need to sweep it underneath the carpet.
“However not this time. Not once more. I do know what I am doing right here. I do know that by talking out I am damaging my possibilities of working within the sport once more.
“However I additionally know it is the precise factor to do and if I’ve to face alone to do it, I’ll.”
- For info and help on psychological well being and suicide, entry the BBC Action Line.
