Hampshire Cricket has announced that new signing Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club. This decision follows opposition from both fans and employees.
The New Zealand international, aged 34, was found not guilty of rape in 2017 at Hamilton District Court. A previous trial had resulted in a hung jury.
Kuggeleijn had agreed a short-term deal for the final four games of Hampshire’s Rothesay County Championship season and was named in the squad for Wednesday’s Division One match against Warwickshire. However, the news was met with criticism from cricket fans on social media, with discussions of potential protests or boycotts.
Hampshire Cricket released a statement saying: “Having reflected and listened to feedback from our staff and supporters, Hampshire Cricket can confirm that Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club.” The club encouraged unity as they enter a crucial stage of the campaign.