Yorkshire announce sub-committee to investigate Azeem Rafiq allegations

Squire Patton Boggs, whom current chairman Roger Hutton was a former partner at, have been enlisted to provide legal advice

• Yorkshire pledge to launch investigation into Rafiq allegations

Yorkshire's board has selected the sub-committee that will conduct a review into allegations of institutional racism made by Azeem Rafiq.

The former captain made accusations during several recent interviews, a treatment that led him to contemplate taking his own life. 

The sub-committee have appointed Squire Patton Boggs to provide legal advice during the review process. Current chairman Roger Hutton was a former partner at the firm.

Dr Samir Pathak, a Trustee of the MCC Foundation, has been appointed to act as chair during the process.

Gulfraz Riaz, chairman of the National Asian Cricket Council and Cricket Development Manager at Club Cricket Conference for the past eight years, has also been added onto the sub-committee.

Chief financial officer at Durham University and senior independent director at Yorkshire Stephen Willis will also join alongside former non-executive director at Sport England Hanif Malik OBE, an independent director at Headingley. 

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Dr Pathak said: "There is a need for all organisations to be diverse and inclusive. My heritage means that I have a deep-rooted interest inequality within sport and society, and I aim to be as impartial as possible throughout this fair and independent investigation."

NACC chief Mr Riaz added: "The National Asian Cricket Council is grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to what is an important review for Azeem, Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the game more broadly.

"In the first instance, it will be crucial to understand the precise nature of Azeem’s grievances and to ensure that following a thorough and transparent review, a suitable outcome is reached.

"Beyond that, the National Asian Cricket Council looks forward to being able to contribute more holistically to recommendations that move us all closer to best practice. We feel strongly that cricket is a game for everyone."

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