These Events Have Fractured Our Game And Torn Lives Apart – Joe Root On Yorkshire-Azeem Rafiq Racism Controversy

The red-ball captain of England Joe Root has said that racism controversy surrounding the Yorkshire County Cricket Club after Azeem Rafiq’s allegations against the club has “fractured our game and torn lives apart”.

Reports were found that former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq was the victim of racial harassment and bullying at the club. Meanwhile, after the allegations, England and Wales cricket board (ECB) suspended Yorkshire from hosting international or any major matches. Also, former chairman Roger Hutton resigned and was replaced by Kamlesh Patel.

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It Hurts Knowing This Has Happened At YCCC – Joe Root

Talking about the Yorkshire controversy Root said that he wants to be in sports where everyone gets treated equally and he was disappointed after knowing about the Yorkshire racism incident.

“I just want the sport to be a place where everyone is enjoying it for the beautiful game it is and feels equal and safe.

“It hurts knowing this has happened at YCCC so close to home. It’s my club that I care passionately about it.

“These events have fractured our game and torn lives apart. We must now recover and come back together as fans, players, media, and those who work within cricket.

“We have an opportunity to make the sport I love better for everyone,” Joe Root said.

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Joe Root further added that he wants to see a change and he will reach out to Lord Patel, to offer his support.

“I want to see change and actions that will see YCCC rise from this with a culture that harnesses a diverse environment with trust across all communities that support cricket in the county.

“We need to educate, unify and reset. I will reach out to YCCC new Chair, Lord Patel, to offer support however I’m able,” he asserted.

Joe Root further elaborated:

“We have to find a way to move forward and make sure this never happens again. In my opinion, this is a societal issue and needs addressing further afield than just cricket”

“That being said, we, as a sport, all have to do more. How can we all help shape things moving forward positively? What can everyone from myself, the ECB, counties, players, officials and others in the sport do to improve the state of the game?”

“I certainly don’t have all the answers, but I think we need to educate more and earlier; we must call it out straight away and have our eyes and ears open more”

Also Read: MS Dhoni Once Said The Deeper You Take The Game, The More Worried Is The Opposition, That Is What Daryl Mitchell Has Done – Simon Doull

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