The independent Cricket Discipline Panel (CDP) has issued its decision in relation to Phillip Hodson, former Deputy Chair of Yorkshire County Cricket Club for a breach of the Anti-Discrimination Regulations and the Professional Conduct Regulations, having made two offensive and discriminatory comments during an after-dinner speech at Scarborough Cricket Club on 22 July 2025.
Mr Hodson accepted the charges and the Cricket Discipline Panel imposed the following sanction:
- A reprimand;
- The requirement to complete a suitable education or training course that addresses equality and diversity to be agreed with the Cricket Regulator;
- A £1,000 fine.
The offensive comments related to sexual orientation and people living with a disability.
In coming to the decision, Richard Whittam KC, the sole arbitrator said, “The conduct admitted to by the Respondent has no place in modern society and no place in the cricket environment. All who participate in cricket in any way, including attending cricket dinners, must be able to do so in an inclusive environment.”
Managing Director of the Cricket Regulator, Chris Haward said, “The ICEC report was clear that as with all areas of culture, the tone is set from the top down, and the Cricket Regulator will act irrespective of the individual’s position within the game.
“We are grateful to the witnesses who came forward and reported the matter. It is incumbent upon all within the game to report matters of discrimination so that we can call out and hold to account those who overstep the boundary.”
Anyone who has experienced any type of discriminatory or misogynistic behaviours in cricket can contact the Cricket Regulator via integrity@cricketregulator.co.uk or safeguarding@cricketregulator.co.uk.
The full judgement is available here.