England cricketers – both men and women – will undergo anti-racism training courses this year after a survey revealed that more than one-third of black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) players have faced prejudice in the game.
England Cricketers will undergo Anti Racism Courses
In the survey, done by the Professional Cricketers’ Association, 45 percent of more than 600 respondents claimed that racism had come from a fellow player, 10 percent said it was from a coach, and around 30 percent had experienced it on social media or from fans.
About 62 percent of the surveyed players agreed with the suggestion, while 70 percent believed specific education on racism and diversity would help improve the situation.
“Only 173 of professional players replied to the survey which the PCA believes shows the level of work they still have to undertake to ensure cricketers realise the importance of anti-racism education,” the report added.
Twelve of the 24 black and minority ethnic players to respond to the survey – of which 12 are current professionals, the other 12 are made up of past and academy players – said they had experienced racist abuse, something the PCA says equates to 38% of BAME members.
In the survey, which was sent to 600 current and former professionals, but received only 173 responses, 11 players who identified as white or caucasian also said they had experienced racism.
“It would have been far better if the vast majority of players had responded. Why they didn’t is very difficult to speculate,” said Charlie Mulraine, the PCA’s lead personal development manager.
“Sometimes there is nervousness talking about these issues and some are uncomfortable to express how they feel.”
ECB introduces anonymous phone line
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) will introduce an anonymous phone line to report racism, issue guidance on how people can be held to account for breaches and a forum for sharing experiences of racism, the report added.
“We needed to start somewhere. This gives us a clear direction of travel and it is an ambition to increase engagement with our members on this issue,” said Rob Lynch, the PCA’s chief executive.
“The option to do nothing was not there so the fact it has led us in this direction is a positive for the game.”
Also read: Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah Faces Racial Abuse During 3rd Test vs Australia at SCG
