Michael Vaughan steps away from BBC commentary panel on back of Yorkshire racism row

India and England will square up in a mouth-watering encounter in the rescheduled fifth and final Test at Edgbaston on July 1st. Some of the biggest names in Test cricket will feature in the match in different capacities, but one name that will be missing is former England Test captain Michael Vaughan. Vaughan has decided to ‘step back from commentary duties following a backlash for his involvement in racism at Yorkshire Cricket Club.

The former England cricketer was one of seven cricketers at Yorkshire who were charged by the ECB’s Cricket Discipline Commission for tarnishing the game’s reputation with their alleged racist comments. British Asian cricketer Azeem Rafiq sent shockwaves around the cricketing world after he revealed the disgraceful racist comments he faced during his stint with Yorkshire.

He revealed that the former England captain was one of the perpetrators behind the racist abuses and made a comment to a group of Asian players in 2009 that, “too many of you lot, we need to do something about it”.

The former skipper was dropped from commentary duties after his involvement in the Yorkshire incident was made public last year. But he was reinstated in the commentary team for England’s recently concluded Test series against New Zealand, a decision that has received widespread criticism. Vaughan has now decided to step down from his role and revealed his decision in a tweet that read :

“On numerous occasions, I have put on record my views on the issues concerning YCCC. 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.”

Michael Vaughan wishes to protect his family and colleagues from any trouble caused by him

The cricketer-turned-expert said that he made his decision to ensure the well-being of his family members. He also stated that he does not wish to cause any trouble to his co-workers and wishes to protect the integrity of the game.

“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,” he added.