ICC get tough on racism

26 September 2006

The International Cricket Council has agreed to adopt a wider-ranging Anti-Racism Code aimed at stamping out racial abuse.

Changes to the existing code, agreed at a two-day meeting of the ICC chief executives’ committee in Dubai, will give countries greater powers to punish racist fans.

While spectators face life bans if found guilty of racist abuse, countries may also be fined and venues have their international status removed if they fail to clamp down on offenders.

ICC chief executive Malcolm Speed said: “The adoption of the amended ICC Anti-Racism Code is a further illustration of cricket’s zero tolerance to racism.

“That is already enshrined in the ICC Code of Conduct where racism is considered one of the most serious acts that can be committed, with the possibility of a life ban for anyone found guilty of such an offence.

Chief executive Malcolm Speed is keen to eradicate racism

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“It has also been a part of our regulations for the past three years through our Anti-Racism Code, and the further strengthening of this code is another illustration of our commitment in this area.

“Cricket is a sport which reflects the world’s diversity with a range of races and religions all involved.

“That diversity is something the game can be proud of and our Anti-Racism Code is something that emphasises the commitment of all our members to maintaining and enhancing it.”

The changes to the code, which was introduced in 2003 and amended in 2005, came on the back of advice from India’s Solicitor General, Goolam Vahanvati, and a working party containing Malcolm Speed, Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland and his South African counterpart, Gerald Majola.

Those recommendations were made in the wake of allegations of racist abuse directed at South Africa players during its 2005/06 tour of Australia.

In addition to the new code, the ICC also agreed to a series of anti-racism policy initiatives, including a telephone/text hotline for spectators to reports offesive behaviour in confidence.