ASHLEY GILES says he’s never heard “Kevin”, used to describe players from other races in the England dressing room.
Giles, the team’s supremo, is the first England player or official to speak out publicly since Azeem Rahfeq’s revelations about bullying and racism.
Giles revealed that he received no anti-discrimination education during his thirty years of cricket.
He warned against the dangers associated with cancelling culture, and believes that everyone deserves a chance to redeem themselves – even his longtime friend Michael Vaughan whose is currently suspended by the BBC.
Rafiq said that during his testimony before the DCMS Select Committee this month, “Kevin”, was a catchall word for all non-white cricketers. It was also an “open secret” within the England dressing room.
Hales denied that Hales called his dog Kevin because it was black .
Giles said, while speaking at England’s Ashes Training Camp in Brisbane: “For record, I have never heard that term used to describe anyone of any background or minority in our dressing room.
“I have been playing cricket for over 30 years. I am sure that there are incidents and things I said in the past which I would not be proud of if it was a different context and time.
“But I can’t recall any instances of discrimination or harm-intent by words or actions during my time playing cricket.”
What if something hurtful was said in the dressing rooms? Yes, quite possibly. We can only apologize if that happened in any of the dressing rooms I have been involved with.
“Shared humor has been in dressing rooms for as long as i’ve played. It’s an important reason why we play. Can we call this banter or two-way humour? “has always been there.”
Giles and Vaughan have been friends for over 20 years.
He refused to comment on Vaughan being suspended by the Beeb over a comment that he made allegedly 12 years ago. Vaughan denies saying it.
Giles continued: “I think tolerance is very important. We will all make mistakes. We must tolerate and educate, otherwise people will not open up about their experiences.
“It is absolutely correct that there is zero tolerance for racism, but if it means that we cut people out and do not give them a chance to try again, then we’ve got a problem. The gap could widen, not shrink.
“We must do much better. Discrimination of any kind is unacceptable. It’s a good thing that the England players are talking to each other.
“I am very proud of England’s diversity.” I would even say that the players are in love with each other.
It tells me we should focus on education. We’re sometimes afraid to discuss these issues.
“I don’t believe I have ever received any meaningful training in equality, diversity and discrimination.”
