Essex County Cricket Club sanctioned over 'systemic racism'

ECB publishes independent report into club's treatment of Zoheb Khan

Club admits 'deeply' racist behavior and vows to take action

Essex County Cricket Club has been sanctioned by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after an independent report found "systematic racism" at the club.

The report, commissioned by the ECB and conducted by law firm Bird & Bird, found that Essex had "failed to address sustained and repeated inappropriate behavior" by some of its staff towards former player Zoheb Khan.

The report also found that Essex had "failed to create an inclusive environment for all its employees, players, and supporters."

The ECB has imposed a six-point sanction on Essex, including a £100,000 fine, a requirement to create an action plan to address the issues raised in the report, and the suspension of Essex's international match status for two years.

Essex has admitted that the report's findings are "deeply" racist and has vowed to take action to address the issues raised.

The club has already taken some steps, including appointing a new chairman, chief executive, and head coach, and has committed to working with the ECB to ensure that the club is a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.