Yorkshire defend process of finding new backers after criticism of Colin Graves' potential return

Graves originally pulled out of the running to be Yorkshire chair in June 2023

Yorkshire have defended their process in finding new backers after claims Colin Graves' return would "undermine the progress" made in tackling racism.

Graves was chair from 2012-2015, part of the period for which they were fined for failing to address the systemic use of racist or discriminatory language.

He is in talks about a takeover, which charity Sporting Equals says would "make a mockery" of victims of racism.

Yorkshire said "no stone has been left unturned" in a "rigorous process".

"Yorkshire County Cricket Club and agents acting on our behalf have met with over 350 interested parties to work through the validity of each and every genuine offer to refinance the club," the club said.

"No stone has been left unturned and a thorough and rigorous process has been conducted by the board to ensure the club stays operational for the benefit of its members, creditors and employees.

"We refute any assertion to the contrary."

Graves, who was also chair of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) between 2015 and 2020, said no racism allegations were raised to him during his tenure at Yorkshire.

Last year, six ex-Yorkshire players found to have used racist language were sanctioned with fines and bans by the Cricket Discipline Commission.

Former player Azeem Rafiq has spoken about his experiences of racism at the county. He has called on Yorkshire's sponsors to oppose Graves' return.

Graves, 75, was criticised by the ECB for suggesting incidents of racism at the county were "banter".

He has revealed his ownership offer for the cash-strapped county was accepted and his consortium was in exclusive negotiations until 5 January.

His return could be confirmed if negotiations are successful and club members vote for his deal at an extraordinary general meeting.

Last week, Clive Efford MP, a member of the Culture, Media and Sport (CMS) select committee, said Graves' return to the club would be "a disaster".

Sporting Equals, a charity that promotes ethnic diversity in UK Sport, said in an open letter to sports minister Stuart Andrew: "Cricket has been making an effort to combat racism over the past few years.

"Since Azeem Rafiq publicly exposed the deep systemic problems the ECB, among others, has taken action to address these issues.

"However, the potential reinstatement of Colin Graves as chairman of Yorkshire County Cricket Club would undermine the progress made.

"His reinstatement would send a message that emboldens those who perpetuate the myth that racism is simply banter, that it is enough to pay lip service to policies and procedures.

"It would make a mockery of the suffering of ethnically diverse players across the country. It would be a rejection of the ICEC report's thorough investigation and well-considered conclusions. This progress must not be stunted."

Sporting Equals also called for a five-point plan to be introduced into cricket, including bringing in a fit and proper persons test for prospective owners.