England Women captain Heather Knight said that the episode of Ollie Robinson’s ban due to ‘historic’ tweets is a ‘clear reminder’ of the responsibility role models such as cricketers have on their shoulders to keep the game in a ‘good light.’
She welcomed Robinson’s international ban saying that the punishment will teach lessons to an 18-year-old now that such sort of opinion is not acceptable. She also urged England cricketers to make the game more inclusive that will allow people from anywhere and everywhere to feel at h0me.
“What’s gone on for the last week or so is a very clear reminder of the role models that we are, and the responsibility that we have as England cricketers to have a positive impact, and represent the sport, and what we want the sport to be, in a very good light,” Knight said on the eve of home series against India Women.
“It shouldn’t really need saying that cricket should be a game for everyone and should be inclusive and welcoming, and everyone should feel like they’re able to take part. If there’s an 18-year-old boy now that realises that sort of opinion isn’t acceptable, then I think that can only be a positive.”
She emphasized the inclusion of Sophia Dunkley, who will be the only second black woman to play for England Women after Ebony Rainford-Brent, in the central contract will be an ‘inspirational’ story.
“I’m sure Sophia doesn’t see herself as a role model, but she massively is. That’s really important. We talk a lot in women’s sport about how you can’t be what you can’t see – that’s similar in Dunks’ situation. I’m absolutely chuffed for her: she’s a great girl, she works really hard and I hope she maximises this opportunity,’ Knight added.
England Women will take on India Women in a one-off Test match scheduled to start on June 16 followed by an ODI series.