Cricketer Azeem Rafiq was reduced to tears this afternoon as he spoke to a committee of MPs in Westminster about the racist experiences he had suffered whilst at Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
Speaking to the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport select committee, the former all-rounder, ex-England U-19s and Yorkshire captain said that racial slurs had been used "constantly" whilst he played for Yorkshire and that English cricket is "institutionally"
He also told the committee that the club's treatment of him following the still-born death of his son in 2017 had been "inhuman".
He said that during his time at Headingley the word p*** was used "constantly", leaving him feeling “humiliated” and “isolated”.
“Pretty early on, me and other people from an Asian background…there were comments such as ‘you’ll sit over there near the toilets’, ‘elephant washers’.
"The word P*** was used constantly. And there just seemed to be an acceptance in the institution from the leaders and no one ever stamped it out."
He also told MPs on the committee about how aged 15 and a practising Muslim, he was pinned down by a senior cricket player who poured wine into his mouth.
He said he did not drink again until 2012, at which point he started in order to "fit in" at Yorkshire - adding that he "wasn't perfect" and was "not proud" of some of the things he did whilst under the influence of alcohol.
This, however, holds "no relation" to the relation he was subjected to whilst on the Yorkshire team, he added.
Mr Rafiq first filed a complaint of racism against the club in September 2020, which led to the Yorkshire Cricket Club launching its own internal investigation.
This report, however, ultimately concluded that the slurs used against him were 'banter' - sparking public outrage.
Mr Rafiq contested this today, saying "P*** is not banter, racism is not banter,”
“The game as a whole really has a problem in listening to the victim.
“It’s been gaslighting, it’s been ‘yeah but’.
“There is no 'yeah, but' to racism.”
In a wide-ranging testimony, Mr Rafiq also added that all he wanted to do was realise his "dream" of playing for England and that he was "in denial" about the scale of the issue up until 2014.
He also said that he thought "things had changed" when he returned in 2016, but the atmosphere became "toxic" when Gary Ballance took over as captain later in the year.
Mr Rafiq also said that racism was a problem in sport "up and down to country", before adding:
"If Yorkshire had seen this as an opportunity to become the leaders in the space, an opportunity to make a real difference in society and the game this could have gone a completely different direction".
Feature image - Parliament TV
Leeds
Luxury Leeds steakhouse to undergo huge £1.2 million renovation
Leeds restaurant The Cut & Craft has announced further expansion plans for the spring.
Swanky all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its popular Leeds site, investing a whopping £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar, lounge and private spaces.
Located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, the renovation will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering.
The extension will celebrate the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley - a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Grade II-listed building’s features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar will remain, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms.
The extension is due for competition this spring and will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for an impressive 370 covers.
Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality.
Image: Supplied
“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here.
“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.”
This new cafe in Leeds has just launched the world’s first brunch afternoon tea
The Hoot
Can't decide between brunch and afternoon tea? Well now you don't have to.
And it's all thanks to Nesso - a new brunch spot on Merrion Street that is changing the game and bringing a whole host of new concepts to the city.
With a kitchen led by renowned chef Bobby Geetha, known for his appearances on MasterChef UK and the Great British Menu, guests can expect a groundbreaking food menu balancing bold flavour with comfort and refinement.
So, what's going on an Nesso?
Italian Brunch Afternoon Tea
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Forget your boring old finger sandwiches that you'd share with your nan, and instead enjoy a full Italian-inspired brunch.
We're talking giant baked scones, Italian pastries like fresh cannolis, plenty of sweet desserts and coffee, tea or prosecco to wash it all down with.
It's the perfect activity to enjoy with friends or family on a weekend, and you can book your table here.
Italian Bottomless Brunch
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There's no denying that we all love a bottomless brunch, and the one at Nesso does not disappoint.
Instead of your average drinks, guests can enjoy a range of Italian aperitivo including Aperol and Limoncello spritz, selected beer and prosecco.
You can enjoy 90 minutes of free flowing drinks alongside a premium brunch dish of your choosing all for just £29.95 per person.
For brunch dishes, highlights include Baked Falafel Hash, Panettone French Toast and Bacon Ricotta Pancakes. Find out more and book your table here.
Weekend Musical Brunch
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If you're a fan of musicals, then you're going to love this. Whilst enjoying your brunch, Nesso will be hosting themed musical experiences for you to dance whilst you're dining.
The themes will include K-Pop weekends, Queens of Pop, R&B classic and International throwback playlists.
Inclusive Dining and Event Spaces
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Nesso Leeds is committed to inclusive hospitality, so no one in your party has to miss out on the fun. The restaurant offers a separate halal menu available on request, with alternative options across brunch dishes.
The venue also accommodates most allergy requirements when bookings are made in advance, ensuring care and clarity for all diners.
Looking for a perfect venue for a celebration? With a capacity of up to 100 guests, Nesso Leeds is ideal for plenty of gatherings you have in mind.
You can find Nesso Leeds near the Leeds Grand Theatre and Leeds First Direct Bank Arena, making it the perfect stop to fuel up before or after your plans.
Georgina Pellant -
16th November 2021 
