English cricket team take u-turn after backlash, confirm rape acquitted cricketer won’t represent club | Cricket News
Hampshire Cricket have confirmed that New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club, following strong criticism from supporters over his inclusion in the squad for the County Championship. The 34-year-old was named in Hampshire’s 15-member squad on X ahead of their match against Warwickshire, although the county had not formally announced his arrival as an overseas player at the time.The move sparked an immediate backlash from fans, with supporters describing the decision as “a disgrace”, “shameful” and “a new low for the club”.
Hampshire responds to fan criticism
Following the backlash, Hampshire issued a statement on X confirming that Kuggeleijn would not represent the club.“Having reflected and listened to feedback from our staff and supporters, Hampshire Cricket can confirm that Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the Club, We value the passion of our fanbase and thank everyone who took the time to share their view. Our focus now turns to supporting the team through the final four County Championship fixtures of the season. We encourage everyone to unite behind the team as we enter a crucial stage of the campaign,” the club said.
Kuggeleijn’s controversial past
Kuggeleijn was charged in 2015 with sexual violation by rape and indecent assault involving two separate complainants. He was acquitted after a second trial, having previously faced a hung jury in the first trial. Despite his acquittal, Kuggeleijn’s selection for New Zealand and domestic teams has previously prompted protests. In 2019, spectators at Eden Park displayed posters objecting to his inclusion in the New Zealand side.
Hampshire languish at bottom
Meanwhile, Hampshire are currently 10th and bottom of the Division One table in the 2026 Rothesay County Championship, with their hopes of avoiding relegation hanging by a thread. Ben Brown’s side have collected 86 points from 10 matches, leaving them 16 points behind ninth-placed Leicestershire and 19 points adrift of Surrey in eighth, the position that currently represents the safety line.Hampshire’s position comes after their rain-affected draw against Glamorgan, with only four County Championship fixtures remaining in their campaign. They now face Warwickshire at the Utilita Bowl in their next red-ball fixture as they begin a crucial final push to preserve their Division One status.
