After Ollie Robinson, another England player investigated for historical racism on social media

England pacer Ollie Robinson returned with the figures of 4/75 and 3/26 on his Test debut against New Zealand at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. Moreover, he even scored a substantial 42 in England’s first innings. Now, this would be a dream start for any player’s Test career. However, the story was a bit different in Robinson’s case. While the pacer was troubling Kiwis on his maiden Test appearance, some of his old derogatory tweets resurfaced and earned criticism.

Robinson, 27, had made some ‘racist and sexist’ comments on social media back in 2012-13 when he was a teenager. Hence, those comments went viral after the pacer received his Test cap. Seeing the backlash of the fans, the right-arm fast bowler even issued an apology to everyone he offended. However, that wasn’t enough as the England Cricket Board (ECB) suspended him from all forms of international cricket pending the outcome of a disciplinary investigation.

Henceforth, the pacer will not be available for the second and final Test against the Blackcaps. While this controversial episode wasn’t yet done and dusted, Wisden.com reported a second England cricketer is being investigated for historical ‘offensive’ social media posts. The cricket website claimed it had uncovered a racist tweet but chose not to disclose the name of the player as he was below 16 when it was posted.

We are looking into the matter: ECB spokesperson

“It has been brought to our attention that an England player has posted historic offensive material on their social media account. We are looking into it and will make further comment in due course,” a spokesperson for the England and Wales Cricket Board said.

Meanwhile, rain had played a significant part during the first Test between England and New Zealand. As a result, the outcome was a draw. Now, all boils down to the second and final Test, getting underway on June 10 at the Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham.

The Three Lions, who were already missing the services of Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer, have been dented further with Robinson being unavailable. Off-spinner Dom Bess has been called as a replacement, and it would be interesting to see if he gets a chance in the starting XI. On the other hand, Kane Williamson’s men would want a win under the bag ahead of the ICC World Test Championship final against India.