Rafiq says he was pressured to depart England after being abused for talking out on racism

Former Yorkshire participant Azeem Rafiq mentioned he was “driven out” of England after talking about his experiences final 12 months on the racism he confronted on the county membership and that he nonetheless lacks assist from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Rafiq, a former captain of the England Under-19 aspect and of Pakistani descent, had instructed a Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) committee in November 2021 he obtained sustained racist abuse and had contemplated suicide whereas at Yorkshire.

His allegations of institutional racism rocked English cricket, resulting in sweeping modifications on the membership and inspiring different victims to return ahead.

Speaking once more to the DCMS panel on Tuesday, the 31-year-old mentioned he didn’t really feel supported though he now receives round the clock safety from the ECB.

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“In the last couple of months, I’ve received 24-7 security, but I have been forced to leave. Providing security has been good throughout, but there was no protection at times,” Rafiq instructed the committee.

“I’ve felt even the ECB has been concerned within the leaking and planting of tales about me. My medical data and knowledge has been shared. I’ve made that time to the brand new (ECB) chair (Richard Thompson).

“I’ve felt that when there was any probability to discredit my experiences, I felt like even the ECB has tried to do this. For me, I don’t suppose it’s about people. The structural issues inside cricket are lots greater.

“If I was to look at 13 months on from me opening my heart out all that’s changed really is that me and my family have been driven out of the country. And that’s a sad element of it.”

Rafiq mentioned that the abuse he confronted included a person defecating exterior his dad and mom’ home.

“The way I’ve been attacked and abused, why would you speak out? I’ve got a little hope in the new ECB leadership, but it’s very little at the minute,” Rafiq mentioned.

The ECB mentioned the proof heard by the panel demonstrated why widespread change was wanted in cricket and why delivering lasting cultural change would require motion over a few years.

“We are committed to achieving this, and have been listening carefully to today’s testimony which will play an important part in helping us understand the further work that is needed,” the ECB mentioned in a press release.

“Since the testimony given by Rafiq to the choose committee a 12 months in the past, vital motion has been taken throughout cricket and progress has been made in tackling discrimination and making the game extra welcoming and inclusive.

“But we are well aware there remains much more work to do.”