Yorkshire and a number of individuals were charged by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) last year following an investigation into allegations of racism made by Azim Rafiq, who claimed in 2021 that he was a victim of institutional racism at the club.

In March, former England captain Michael Vaughan was cleared of charges of using racist language against Rafique, but the ACC panel upheld charges against former Yorkshire players Tim Bresnan, John Blaine, Matthew Hoggard, Andrew Gayle and Richard Peer.

Gary Ballance, who announced his retirement from cricket in April, did not attend the hearing in March because he had already admitted to using racist remarks against former teammate Rafique in 2021.

On Friday, Ballance, Bresnan, Gayle and Pyra received fines as well as suspensions of varying lengths from coaching and playing cricket, while Blaine and Hoggard only got off with fines.

In addition, all six players were advised to take a course on racism or discrimination at their own expense. Players have until June 9 to appeal the decision.

The CDC also confirmed that a sanction hearing against Yorkshire County Cricket Club, which has admitted four breaches… will take place on Tuesday 27 June 2023, the CDC said.The racism scandal rocked English cricket and led to numerous changes to the coaching and administrative staff of the club.