Joe Root releases statement on racism saga at Yorkshire

Things are not going smooth at the Yorkshire Cricket Club. The recent racism saga has brought the sensitive matter to light. Not too long ago, the England Cricket Board (ECB) had to endure a lot when Ollie Robinson was accused of racism. Now, Yorkshire is feeling the heat due to Michael Vaughan and Gary Balance controversy where they have been accused of passing racist comments to former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq.

England Test skipper Joe Root has now issued an official statement regarding the ongoing racism uproar at Yorkshire. Root, who has spent his entire cricketing life at the club, feels the recent incident has brought the game to shame as there is no place for racism in the sport.

"In my capacity as England captain and as a senior player at Yorkshire, I feel compelled to address the current situation that has consumed the sport and YCCC," Root said.

"I just want the sport to be a place where everyone is enjoying it for the beautiful game it is and feels equal and safe. It hurts knowing this has happened at YCCC so close to home.”

"It’s my club that I care passionately about. I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting. There is no debate about racism, no one side or other. It is simply intolerable.”

The England skipper urged the fans, media and players to come together make the sport beautiful for everyone.

"These events have fractured our game and torn lives apart. We must now recover and come back together as fans, players, media, and those who work within cricket. We have an opportunity to make the sport I love better for everyone.”

Root concluded by saying that he will speak to the YCCC new chair regarding the matter. "We need to educate, unify and reset. I will reach out to YCCC new Chair, Lord Patel, to offer support however I’m able. "We have to find a way to move forward and make sure this never happens again."