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Former England skipper Vaughan steps down from BBC commentary duty

Badal Pareek

Michael Vaughan has decided to step down from his commentary duties with the BBC because of the ongoing dialogue around the racism allegations against the former England captain while he was on duty with Test Match Special for the three-Test series against New Zealand.


Something similar took place in November last year as he was dropped from the Ashes coverage panel after being accused by several players of making racist comments before a Yorkshire game in 2009. However, Vaughan has repeatedly denied any such allegations against him.


In relation to the allegations put forward by Azeem Rafiq, who claimed that the former England skipper told a group of Muslim players in 2009 that there were 'too many of you lot, we need to do something about it.' Last week, the England and Wales Cricket Board's disciplinary commission charged Vaughan with bringing the game into disrepute by making racist remarks.


BBC Sport's Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups were forced to email the corporation's staff because of the charges against Vaughan. The email cited a 'totally inexcusable' decision to employ the 47-year-old.


"On numerous occasions, I have put on record my views on the issues concerning YCCC," Vaughan said in a statement on Tuesday evening. 


"It is always regrettable when commentary on matters off the field take the focus away from what's happening on the field. In view of the ongoing dialogue on the subject, I have taken the decision to step back from my work with the BBC for the time being."


"The key driver for this is my concern for the wellbeing of my family members and my wish to protect their family life. Stepping back temporarily is also in the interests of the game and I hope that it will minimise any difficulties for my work colleagues."


Post the announcement by Vaughan, the BBC in a statement said: "Following conversations with Michael Vaughan we have accepted his decision to step away from our cricket coverage. This is a decision we respect and understand. Michael remains under contract to the BBC."