Yorkshire racism hearing to take place in public following Azeem Rafiq request

The ECB initially resisted the request. But, having contacted the witnesses in the case and been assured that the majority were content to give evidence in public if required, they relaxed their stance

The ECB have confirmed that the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) hearings into allegations of racism at Yorkshire will be heard in public.

The decision, which was first reported by The Cricketer on October 17, follows a request from Azeem Rafiq, which was subsequently supported by Yorkshire and not contested by the ECB, at a directions hearing in mid-October.

Azeem made the request on the basis that a public hearing would be the only way for him and his family to gain closure after an episode he suggests has driven him to the brink of suicide. It will see him, as chief witness, cross-examined by the lawyers of the accused. Proceedings will be streamed.

The ECB initially resisted the request. But, having contacted the witnesses in the case and been assured that the majority were content to give evidence in public if required, they relaxed their stance.

The Cricketer understands that all but one witness confirmed they were happy with the change.

^{Azeem Rafiq will be called as chief witness (Alex Davidson/Getty Images)}

The decision is unusual. CDC hearings are not privileged, so participants on all sides will have to be aware of the threats of subsequent legal action.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan is among the seven individuals charged in connection with the allegations. Yorkshire CCC are also facing charges and are expected to make at least one guilty plea. Gary Ballance, who has previously admitted using racist language and apologised to Azeem, is among the others facing charges.

The Telegraph, for whom Vaughan works, reported that he "was happy for the proceedings to be heard in public". The Cricketer understands his legal team fought tooth and nail to prevent such a scenario.

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