ECB likely to penalise upto 12 former Yorkshire staffs, accused in Azeem Rafiq's racism scandal

Azeem Rafiq's racism scandal that rocked English county cricket is probably reaching its conclusion. The English Cricket Board (ECB) is set to take action against several former Yorkshire players and support staff who were a part of the delinquency against the British Asian cricketer.

The 31-year-old had appeared before the United Kingdom Parliamentary Committee to reflect on the racism he had encountered. During his eight-year tenure with Yorkshire, the Karachi-born English cricketer had allegedly faced constant racial abuse.

In his elaborate testimony, Rafiq had described the inhuman treatment meted out by his colleagues at the County club. The finger spinner claimed that he had been subjected to racist name-calling, including 'P***' and 'elephant water'.

Former English top-order batter Gary Ballance, veteran Matthew Hoggard, and paceman Tim Bresnan are among the twelve names on the ECB's radar. After the racism controversy had surfaced, the ECB had launched a rigorous investigation into the matter.

After six months of in-depth investigation, the ECB is set to take action. The Daily Mail has reported that the accused will be charged with violating the governing body's anti-discrimination code and bringing shame to the 'Gentleman's game'.

Among the ex-England cricketers on ECB's list, the Bresnan had denied all allegations and maintained his innocence.

On the other hand, Ballance had apologized to Rafiq for his racist remarks. Hoggard had also rued his offensive comments and behavior.