Hampshire Cricket has reversed its decision to sign New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn after receiving feedback from staff and supporters.
Key facts
- •Hampshire Cricket confirmed that Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club.
- •The decision followed feedback from staff and supporters regarding the signing.
- •Kuggeleijn is a fast-bowling all-rounder who has played 23 times for New Zealand.
- •The player was acquitted of rape charges following trials in 2016 and 2017.
- •Hampshire has four matches remaining in the current County Championship season.
Hampshire Cricket announced that Scott Kuggeleijn will no longer join the club following public backlash. The decision comes after the team had initially called on the New Zealand fast-bowling all-rounder, who has made 23 appearances for his national side, to join the squad.
Background on the decision
The club stated that it reached the decision after reflecting on feedback from staff and supporters. Hampshire Cricket is currently focused on its final four County Championship fixtures of the season and has called for unity behind the team.
Context regarding the player
Scott Kuggeleijn was previously put on trial for rape in 2016 and 2017, ultimately being found not guilty after a hung jury in the first trial. The player has also represented the Dubai Capitals, a team owned by the GMR group, which also holds ownership in Hampshire.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Guardian Sport.
