LONDON: Former England captain and renowned commentator Michael Vaughan has decided to resign from the BBC’s commentary panel amid ongoing talks around allegations of racism in Yorkshire.
The former England captain, who has been a BBC presenter and commentator since 2009, was mentioned in a report about Azeem Rafiq’s encounters with racism while playing for Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) recently brought charges against Yorkshire and “several people” after investigating allegations of racism. If he is found guilty, the defendant could face a ban or fine from the Board. Vaughan is reportedly one of the people charged, but the name of the suspect has not yet been released by the ECB.
Vaughan, on the other hand, in a statement on social media, claimed that his decision to step back temporarily is in the interest of the game and the well-being of his family.
“On numerous occasions, I have gone on record with my views on YCCC-related issues. It’s always unfortunate when comments about matters off the field take attention away from what’s happening on the field,” Vaughan said on Twitter.
“In view of the ongoing dialogue on the matter, I have taken the decision to step back from my work with the BBC for the time being. Taking a step back temporarily is also in the interest of the game and I hope it minimizes any hardship for my co-workers,” he added.
It is pertinent to mention here that the ECB launched the investigation after former Yorkshire CCC player Rafiq made allegations of racism and claimed to have experienced “inhuman behaviour”, while an independent panel of the Cricket Disciplinary Commission (CDC) it will hear cases in due course and in accordance with the usual practice of the ECB.
READ: Yorkshire CCC requests ‘cooperation’, responds to ECB racism charges
