Alex Hales dismisses racial connotation in naming his dog as 'Kevin'

England batter Alex Hales has denied the accusations made by Azeem Rafiq that he named his dog as Kevin to tease the non-white players. Rafiq, who earlier accused former England skipper Michael Vaughan of racially abusing Asian origin players, made several fresh allegations against players like Tim Bresnan, Matthew Hoggard, Gary Ballance. Rafiq revealed that Gary Ballance used the word 'Kevin' to address the non-white players post which Hales named his dog as 'Kevin'

The England opener, however, has denied the claims, adding that there is no place for racism in sport. Hales also said he will co-operate with any investigation regarding the claims made by Rafiq.

"Having heard the allegations made against me, I categorically and absolutely deny there was any racial connotation in the naming of my dog," Hales said in a statement.

"I entirely respect and have huge sympathy for both the stance Azeem Rafiq has taken and what he has had to endure. His evidence was harrowing.

"There is no place for racism or discrimination of any kind in cricket, and I will gladly co-operate with any investigation the game's authorities choose to hold.

"Neither I nor my representatives will be making any further comment on the matter."

Meanwhile, Nottinghamshire have started to investigate the matter. "Following on from the testimony provided to the DCMS select committee regarding Alex Hales, we have commenced the appropriate internal process and will continue to liaise with Alex and his advisers accordingly," a Nottinghamshire statement read.