The Edgbaston club accept zero-tolerance to all forms of discrimination "hadn’t been delivered and wasn’t enough" during the fifth Test and have reacted strongly
Warwickshire have admitted to a failing in their measures to tackle all forms of discrimination after reports of racist abuse during the fifth England v India Test at Edgbaston.
A police investigation is underway after complaints of racist abuse on day four of the match. India supporters' group, the Bharat Army, has confirmed the reports.
Both the club and the England and Wales Cricket Board will issue lifetime bans to any fans prosecuted as a result of the authorities' enquiries.
Victims also reported stewards ignoring complaints of abuse, with the club now accepting their "stringent" efforts fell short. Security partner G4S are now investigating why complaints from ticketholders were not dealt with effectively.
Chief executive Stuart Cain said: "We cannot hide from the mindless racist abuse experienced by some fans following India in the Eric Hollies Stand.
"These unacceptable actions by a small number of people have over-shadowed a superb sporting contest, and those responsible do not deserve to be part of the cricket family.
"We need to work harder as people, as well as a venue, to take responsibility for ensuring that everyone feels safe and welcome when watching the game."
The alleged abuse is reported to have taken place in the Eric Hollies Stand (Harry Trump/Getty Images)
Edgbaston is back under the microscope this week when it hosts the second T20 international between England and India on Saturday (July 9) before T20 Finals Day, the blue-riband event in the domestic calendar the following weekend.
New measures have been introduced in light of the incidents that overshadowed the fifth Test.
They include undercover spotters being littered throughout the crowd looking and listening out for abusive behaviour, an increased police presence, increased awareness of the Edgbaston app where incidents can be reported, improved messaging regarding the club's zero-tolerance approach and a promise that stewards will respond more proactively to incidents.
Cain added: "This has given the club renewed energy and motivation to work even harder to make sure Edgbaston is a place for everyone – regardless of race, sex, gender, ability or background. A few mindless idiots must not distract us.
"We are determined that any unacceptable behaviour will have a very public consequence.
"I want to apologise directly to any fans who were subjected to racist abuse. Everyone at Edgbaston will work hard to do better, and they are welcome back with open arms in the future."
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