Cricket side under fire after signing player cleared of rape, indecent assault charges

Cricket Accessories (Photo AFP) Hampshire are facing a strong backlash from their own supporters after they included controversial New Zealand cricketer Scott Kuggeleijn in their squad for the County Championship game against Warwickshire, despite not publicly announcing his signing.The 34-year-old has been named among 15 Hampshire players at the X, with the county yet to officially confirm his arrival as an overseas player.Fans were quick to criticize the move, with one calling it a “disgrace” and another calling it “disgraceful” and “a new low for the club”.

Kuggeleijn’s controversial past

Kuggeleijn was charged in 2015 with sexual violence by rape and indecent assault involving two complainants. He was acquitted after a second trial, after a jury in the first trial.Despite the acquittal, his selection for the New Zealand and domestic teams has repeatedly led to protests. In 2019, spectators at Eden Park held placards objecting to his inclusion.Kuggeleijn has spent the last 12 years playing for Northern Districts in New Zealand and will now join Hampshire for the final four games of their County Championship campaign.

Hampshire are fighting to avoid relegation

Hampshire are currently bottom of Division One and are 16 points behind Leicestershire, who they still have to face.With the team fighting to stay in the top division, Kuggeleijn’s arrival brought controversy off the pitch.His inclusion has already drawn criticism from fans, particularly as the club did not announce his signing before he was named in the squad.