Ashes 2021: Michael Vaughan ‘disappointed’ over BBC sacking after racism allegations

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has expressed his disappointment after being dropped from the BBC’s Ashes coverage for allegedly making racist comments towards an Asian-origin player a few years back.

Azeem Rafiq alleged that Vaughan told him and two other players of Asian origin that there were “too many of you lot, we need to do something about it” before a match in 2009. Vaughan has strongly denied the accusation.

Vaughan’s comments came after BCC announced on Wednesday that Ashes-winning England captain Vaughan will not be part of its Test Match Special team for the upcoming series in Australia.

“While he is involved in a significant story in cricket, for editorial reasons we do not believe that it would be appropriate for Vaughan to have a role in our Ashes team or wider coverage of the sport at the moment,” the BBC said in a statement.

“We require our contributors to talk about relevant topics and his involvement in the Yorkshire story represents a conflict of interest.”

Vaughan said he was disappointed with the decision but added the problems afflicting the sport were bigger than his plight.

“Very disappointed not to be commentating for TMS on the Ashes and will miss working with great colleagues & friends, but looking forward to being behind the mic for @foxcricket in Australia. The issues facing cricket are bigger than any individual case and I want to be part of the solution, listening, educating myself, and helping to make it a more welcoming sport for all,” Vaughan posted on his Instagram handle.

The five-Test Ashes series between England and hosts Australia begins in Brisbane on December 8.