Yorkshire has defended Colin Graves’ expected return to the club and insisted that his proposed takeover came after a “thorough and rigorous process” that involved meeting with more than 350 interested parties.

The action was taken following increasing disapproval of the agreement by former player Azeem Rafiq, the organization Sporting Equals, and multiple Members of Parliament. They have all expressed concerns due to Graves’ role as Yorkshire’s executive chair from 2012 to 2015, a time when the club was found guilty of not addressing the widespread use of racist or discriminatory language.

According to reports, Graves is prepared to invest £4m to settle debts and provide funds for Yorkshire. He has denied any knowledge of racism at the club, but faced backlash last year for downplaying derogatory language as simply locker room jokes.

In an article for Sunday’s Observer, Rafiq expressed his belief that the notion that Yorkshire had no alternative options but Graves was absurd. He also claimed that Lord Mann had proposed introducing them to three potential investors before Christmas, but they had declined. Rafiq further disclosed that he was informed in February 2023 about plans for Graves to make a comeback. He described the way his return is being portrayed as deceitful and unsettling.

On Monday, the county stood by their actions in pursuing the necessary investment to remain operational. The statement read, “Yorkshire county cricket club and agents acting on our behalf have engaged with more than 350 potential investors to carefully evaluate the credibility of each legitimate proposal to refinance the club.”

The board has thoroughly and carefully reviewed everything to ensure the club remains open for the benefit of its members, creditors, and employees. We reject any claim to the contrary.

The strong reaction from Yorkshire occurred on the same day that Sporting Equals expressed concerns about Graves’ upcoming return. They stated that it would hinder the fight against racism and belittle the struggles of those who have experienced it.

The charity stated in a letter to Stuart Andrew, the sports minister, the ECB, and other counties that Cricket has been actively fighting against racism in recent years. After Azeem Rafiq brought attention to the deep-rooted issues within the ECB, steps were taken to address them. However, the potential appointment of Colin Graves as chairman of Yorkshire County Cricket Club could hinder the progress made.

Reinstating him would convey a message that encourages those who promote the false belief that racism is just harmless teasing, and that merely acknowledging policies and procedures is sufficient. This would trivialize the struggles of ethnically diverse players throughout the nation.

The group also urged the implementation of a five-point strategy, beginning with a separate examination to determine the suitability of potential owners.

Recently, Clive Efford, a member of the committee for culture, media, and sport, expressed his belief that Graves’ comeback would have negative consequences on the sport of cricket. He also deemed it a step backwards. Additionally, Alex Sobel, a Labour MP for the Leeds North West area which encompasses Headingley, reportedly wrote a letter to Yorkshire’s chair Harry Chathli expressing his worry and requesting a meeting.

Source: theguardian.com