Hampshire withdraw Scott Kuggeleijn after fan protests
Hampshire reversed their decision to field Scott Kuggeleijn after protests over his 2017 rape acquittal.
Hampshire have withdrawn New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn from their County Championship squad following widespread backlash from fans and staff. The county issued a statement on Friday citing feedback from supporters and employees as the reason for the reversal.
Kuggeleijn faced rape and indecent assault charges in 2017 but was acquitted after a trial. The decision to sign him had drawn criticism on social media, with some supporters labelling the move a disgrace.
The county confirmed the U-turn would stand and did not announce any replacement overseas player for the remainder of the season.
CricHubb Take
Counties will now vet overseas signings for past controversies before contracts are announced, shifting risk assessment earlier in the recruitment process.