ECB introduces a new Independent Cricket Regulator

In a significant move aimed at addressing structural inequalities in cricket, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has introduced the Cricket Regulator, an independent body tasked with overseeing compliance and enforcing regulations within the sport.

This development follows a critical report by the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) titled “Holding Up a Mirror to Cricket,” which shed light on disparities across race, gender, and class.

The 317-page document, released in June, criticised the ECB for its dual roles as both promoter and regulator of the game, citing “irreconcilable” conflicts of interest. The report particularly highlighted shortcomings in handling the racism crisis triggered by Azeem Rafiq’s revelations about his experiences in Yorkshire.

Responding to the ICEC’s recommendation, the ECB confirmed in September that it would establish an independent body to investigate regulatory breaches and make decisions about potential charges. The Cricket Regulator unveiled on Monday, will operate under the oversight of an independent Cricket Regulatory Board, ensuring independence from the ECB.

Key responsibilities of the Cricket Regulator include investigating reported cases and determining whether there is sufficient evidence to bring them before the Cricket Discipline Panel. The scope of the regulator’s authority now encompasses safeguarding, integrity (covering anti-corruption, misconduct, and anti-doping), and anti-discrimination, areas previously under the ECB’s purview.

Dave Lewis, a former police chief with over 30 years of law enforcement experience, has been appointed interim director of the Cricket Regulator. His role involves establishing the body before a permanent successor takes over in 2024. Lewis emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards in matters such as anti-discrimination, stating,

“The Cricket Regulator will cover a wide range of matters on which the game has set clear standards, including anti-discrimination. The team and I are clear about the importance of meeting high standards in ensuring people across the game know what is expected of them, and having the best procedures in place, to protect and promote the good of the game, and everyone involved,” as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.

ECB chief executive Richard Gould expressed support for the Cricket Regulator’s establishment, highlighting its independence from the ECB.

“It is important that the game has the best processes in place in order to enforce regulations. The ICEC report recommended that we introduce further independence to the game’s regulatory process and the Cricket Regulator overseen by an independent Cricket Regulatory Board will do that.”

“The Cricket Regulator is ring-fenced from the ECB, and that separation will ensure that their work is distinct from our work as the game’s promoter,” Gould said.