Coach suspended and director ‘absent due to stress’ at Yorkshire CCC

Troubled Yorkshire County Cricket Club has confirmed its First XI Coach, Andrew Gale, is currently suspended pending a disciplinary hearing following an historic tweet.

The club, which has become embroiled in a high profile race row following allegations of racist treatment made by ex-player Azeem Rafiq and subsequent accusations made by other former players, says it will make a further statement once this disciplinary process has been completed.

It has also said that as of yesterday – 9 November – its director of cricket Martyn Moxon is absent from work due to a stress related illness.

Lord Patel, the new chairman of the club, said: “We need to listen to anyone who has experienced racism, discrimination and abuse at this cricket club, and I urge others to come forward to share their experiences.

“We are aware that, since I spoke yesterday, a number of allegations have been made from individuals about their experiences in the media. These need to be properly investigated.

“I announced that an independent whistleblowing hotline will be set up as quickly as possible, as a safe space for people to come forward with disclosures.

“Once it is operational – and I have asked for this to happen by the end of this week – this will be the first step to a new and dedicated process to receive and to respond directly to all allegations and concerns.

“We want anyone who may have suffered issues to come forward, and these will be considered carefully and with due diligence.”

The cricket club has faced widespread criticism for its handling of a racism investigation into the original allegations made by Rafiq.

Since them, senior members of its management have resigned, key sponsors have withdrawn their support and the club has been suspended from hosting lucrative international matches.

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