First-class grounds to showcase British sign language on big screens to combat discrimination

In a recent development, it was announced that the use of British sign language will be implemented at first-class grounds to help convey anti-discrimination messages at professional games in England and Wales for the first time this summer.

Every first-class venue will be displaying the video message, which will be performed by the male and female players for their counties and regions. It is also worth noting that the move was announced in light of Sign Language Week.

The work for the same was completed in January, with English-deaf players Joel Harris and Jake Oakes working as teachers for the county and regional pros involved. It is worth noting that Harris was part of the deaf England side that won the Deaf Ashes in Australia for the first time in 2022. Furthermore, the videos are all set to feature across England internationals, the County Championship, the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, the T20 Blast, the Charlotte Edwards Cup, the One-Day Cup, and The Hundred.

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 British Sign Language isn't an easy language to learn: Harris

Speaking of the same, Joel Harris came forward to highlight how tough it is to win the British sign language and how forthcoming the players have been in wanting to learn the language. Furthermore, he also talked about how small things have been focused on for the deaf community to make them feel more welcome.

"British Sign Language isn't an easy language to learn. The players have been amazing in the way they have wanted to learn. I have had a lot of good feedback. We're not asking the players to be knowledgeable, but they've wanted to know more. We've taught them their lines and some of the basics like how important facial expressions and body movement is alongside hand gestures. They're small but important things for the deaf community to feel welcomed,” Harris was quoted as saying by The Cricketer.

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