Ashes 2019: ECB ‘disturbed’ by allegations of racist chanting during fourth Test at Old Trafford

A supporter wrote to the ECB to complain after allegations of racist chanting

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are “extremely disturbed” after allegations of racist chanting as well as sexist and homophobic abuse by spectators during the fourth Ashes test against Australia at Old Trafford.

A supporter was reported to have left the ground on day two on Thursday after hearing a racist song about England’s Barbados-born fast bowler Jofra Archer from a section of fans.

The spectator wrote a letter to the ECB to complain and added that women were subjected to sexist chants, with the same group of fans reportedly aiming homophobic abuse at some players.

An ECB statement read: “The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is extremely disturbed to hear that a report was made regarding anti-social behaviour from a group of spectators during the fourth Ashes Test match at Emirates Old Trafford.

“We are currently working alongside Lancashire to understand the specifics of this case. ECB works closely with all First Class Counties to ensure that clear guidelines are in place at every venue so that watching a cricket match is safe and enjoyable for everyone.

“Venues are responsible for the stewarding operation at matches but we have a number of measures in place to continually improve standards, including contracting the Sports Ground Safety Authority (SGSA) to audit all venues, adopting the ICC’s anti-racism and discriminatory behaviour code, and working with Drink Aware to support their alcohol management policy.

“While this is a relatively isolated incident there is absolutely no place for anti-social behaviour within the game and it is vitally important that all spectators feel able to come forward to report anti-social behaviour and feel safe in doing so.”