NEW DELHI: Heather Knight, the captain of England’s women’s cricket team, has been reprimanded and handed a suspended fine of £1,000 ($1,300) after an old photograph surfaced on social media showing her in “blackface.”
Knight, who is preparing to lead England in the Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE next month, expressed deep regret for her actions, which Cricket Discipline Commission adjudicator Tim O’Gorman labeled as “racist and discriminatory.”
O’Gorman noted that Knight had no racist or discriminatory intent when the photo was taken at a sports-themed fancy dress party in 2012, when Knight was 21 years old.
“I’m truly sorry for the mistake I made in 2012. It was wrong and I have long regretted it,” AFP quoted Knight saying in a statement.
“Back then, I simply was not as educated as to the implications and consequences of my actions as I have become since. There was no ill-intent meant.
“Whilst I can’t change the past, I am passionate and committed to using my platform to promote inclusivity across the game, ensuring under-represented groups are afforded the same opportunities and fulfilment within the game as I have.”
The image of Knight in blackface was initially posted on Facebook by another individual.
Knight promptly accepted the charges brought against her last month, demonstrated remorse, and apologized for her actions.
Her punishment also considered that she lacked education on the issues related to such a photo at the time and acknowledged her ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.
At a ‘sports stars’ themed party in 2012, Ms Knight appeared in a photo in fancy dress with blackface. This, I find, was racist and discriminatory conduct,” O’Gorman’s judgement said.
” (But) I find and accept that there was no racist or discriminatory intent in the blackface itself.
“It is accepted that Ms Knight did not herself post the photograph on any social media platform, has no power to delete the photo and has no power to control how it has been posted (or might be posted in future).
“I consider that it is inappropriate and unnecessary to require a further apology.”
In 2013, Knight’s teammate Danni Wyatt-Hodge faced reprimand for similar charges related to a blackface post on Instagram.
England and Wales Cricket Board chief executive Richard Gould acknowledged Knight’s recognition of her serious error in judgement from over ten years ago, stating she has rightly apologized.
“As a public figure and leader, Heather has worked tirelessly to foster a more inclusive and equitable future for cricket,” Gould added.
This incident highlights ongoing efforts within cricket to address and rectify past mistakes while promoting a diverse and inclusive environment for all.