Club supports ‘equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas,’ CEO says 6 former Yorkshire players punished last month for using discriminatory language LONDON: Yorkshire County Cricket Club have signed a charter pledging to recognize the needs of their Muslim players, staff and fans, the Independent reported on Sunday. The club are awaiting sanctions for their treatment of allegations of racism and bullying lodged by former player Azeem Rafiq, as well as a failure to address systemic use of racist and discriminatory language over a prolonged period. The case resulted in significant leadership changes at the club, with Lord Kamlesh Patel stepping down as chair in March, the report said Other changes included working with Nujum Sports, a nonprofit group that aims supporting Muslim athletes. Having signed up to Nujum’s Muslim Athlete Charter, Yorkshire said it was demonstrating “its commitment to equity, and diversity and inclusion for all.” The charter includes 10 elements, including the provision of alcohol-free spaces, appropriate places to pray, halal food, and accommodating staff and players who are fasting during Ramadan, the report said. “It is integral to supporting the work we already do in building a sport that is equal for all,” Yorkshire’s CEO Stephen Vaughan told the BBC. “By understanding the faith and cultural needs of our Muslim players, staff and fans, we can help to create an open and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated,” he said. “We would encourage all our leagues and clubs to find out more about the Muslim Athlete Charter and to seek to adopt its principles. “The signing of the Muslim Athlete Charter is one of many initiatives Yorkshire Cricket is committed to in order to support equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of the club and reflect Yorkshire’s rich and vibrant community.” Yorkshire have admitted four charges related to the racism scandal, with a Cricket Discipline Commission panel set to hold a sanctions hearing on June 27, the Independent report said. The CDC also last month fined and banned six former Yorkshire players for using discriminatory remarks toward Rafiq and three other players of Asian ethnicity.