Yorkshire has said the decision was ‘difficult’ but ‘in the best interests of the club.’
The entire coaching team at Yorkshire County Cricket Club has been sacked in the aftermath of the recent racism scandal that the club has been hit with, the club has announced.
It follows allegations of racist abuse from former player Azeem Rafiq during his time at the club.
A statement released by Yorkshire CCC on Friday morning read: “We can confirm that Martyn Moxon, Director of Cricket, and Andrew Gale, First XI Coach, have left the Club today (3 December), in addition to all members of the coaching team.
“A new Director of Cricket will be appointed imminently, alongside a new coaching team which is being recruited.
“The backroom medical team, external services provided by Pavilion Physiotherapy Clinic, has also left the Club. An interim medical team is also in the process of being appointed.
“We thank everyone who is leaving for their service. Further announcements will be made in due course.”
We can confirm that Martyn Moxon, Director of Cricket, and Andrew Gale, First XI Coach, have left the Club today (3 December), in addition to all members of the coaching team
— Yorkshire CCC (@YorkshireCCC) December 3, 2021
Speaking about the decision, Lord Patel OBE, the chair of Yorkshire County Cricket Club, said: “Significant change is required at Yorkshire County Cricket Club and we are committed to taking whatever action is necessary to regain trust. The decisions announced today were difficult to make, but are in the best interests of the Club.
“Without making important changes to how we are run, we cannot move on from the past to become a culture which is progressive and inclusive.
“We want to make Yorkshire County Cricket Club a place for everyone, from all backgrounds. To do this, we need to rebuild our culture and instil positive values in everyone associated with Yorkshire. We are determined to learn from the mistakes of the past to become a Club which people can trust.
The club are hoping to announce a new Director of Cricket in the coming days, with Lord Patel adding that he is “confident that this heralds a step forward towards a brighter future.”
Related links:
- Michael Vaughan removed from BT Sport’s Ashes coverage following Azeem Rafiq’s racism claims
- Azeem Rafiq apologises for anti-semitic messages he sent on Facebook
- Former England bowler Tim Bresnan ‘categorically denies’ Azeem Rafiq’s allegations of racism
