Following sportscotland’s update on the progress made within Cricket Scotland, Interim Chief Executive Pete Fitzboydon has issued the following statement:
“We welcome and fully endorse yesterday’s update by sportscotland, and I would like to thank Forbes Dunlop and his team for their continued support throughout what has been an extremely challenging period for Cricket Scotland.
“Working within the parameters of special measures has allowed us to focus on much needed improvements within the governing body and our sport. The continuation of this framework and sportscotland’s support will be crucial as we complete the final criteria to move out of special measures in the coming months.
“I am pleased with the progress made up to now, but there is still work to do. Wholesale culture change takes time and requires collective effort and responsibility. The overwhelming majority of cricket is played each week without incident; indeed, our sport can play a unique role in bringing communities together in a shared passion. However, this does not mean there isn’t a problem. Any incident of racism is one too many.
“It has been reiterated through the referrals process that Cricket Scotland, as the governing body for the sport, systematically failed many people within Scottish cricket. We fully accept the actions and recommendations resulting from the process, and we are committed to delivering on these to create a stronger and more inclusive sport for all.
“The changes made thus far within Cricket Scotland have been significant:
- The implementation of a new, independent disciplinary process.
- The confirmation of strong long-term leadership, with a Chief Executive, Chair and Board recruited with an industry-leading inclusive process.
- The commencement of comprehensive EDI training, that will cascade throughout the entire sport.
- The revamp of every policy within Cricket Scotland, with expert guidance to ensure best practice around equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Over 130 additional improvements being implemented on the back of learnings from the 33 referrals received from the independent investigative team to date.
“We have also been conducting Scottish cricket’s biggest ever consultation exercise. The feedback we’ve received has underlined the overwhelming desire for significant long-term change across many areas of cricket, most prominently in delivering fairness, inclusivity, and greater opportunities for all within our sport.
“In addition, we have consciously delayed the governance changes required in order that they are completed properly, and to ensure the full understanding and support of those in our sport. These governance changes will be voted upon by our clubs at an EGM in January 2024.
“All of the improvements will result in a strategy that enshrines equality, diversity, and inclusion in the sport for the long term. This is the only way to deliver long term cultural change for Scottish cricket.
“On a personal level, it’s been hugely enjoyable and beneficial to consult with the countless number of dedicated and skilled volunteers involved in our sport, many of whom I’ve met during the last six months. I’ve been struck by the passion and enthusiasm of the Scottish cricketing community, as well as the collective desire to improve our game for everyone.
“Cricket is a truly great sport, with massive potential in Scotland. The changes that have been made, and those still to come, are needed and will make our sport even better for everyone.”
