Competitive Journalism
0This whole Scott Kuggeliejn thing is kind of getting out of hand. When a major sporting body issues a statement and no mainstream organisation is willing to run with it… well that’s a bit odd.
It all hit the headlines last month when Kuggeliejn played his third game for New Zealand Self-proclaimed New Zealand’s biggest fans somehow overlooked he played two ODIs for NZ a few months after the acquittal.
Anyway, a statement has been issued by NZC that The Project, and other organisations are not running with.
Make of the statement what you will but censorship for whatever reason is a bit creepy.
NZC rejects sexual assault and/or harassment as utterly abhorrent and completely unacceptable, and will continue to work hard in this area to educate players on good decision-making and respect for women.
The NZC board is aware of the Minister’s position and specifically his support of our inclusivity and diversity culture, and the programmes implemented to educate players on issues of respect, conduct and harassment.
NZC has kept him updated throughout.
Contrary to some reports, the NZC board has not maintained silence on this issue but has simply remained concise and consistent on its stance from the outset: that it will not publicly debate aspects of Scott Kuggeleijn’s trial in isolation and/or without context.
In terms of the wider issue, NZC has previously highlighted its total commitment to growing the relationship between women and cricket – this has been our main focus and investment since 2015.
Enormous progress has been made in that time to ensure the organisation is fully immersed in a culture that respects, includes and values women.
It’s a complex issue, but there would be few that would argue it’s being dealt with in good faith at the moment. Competitive journalism is also ugly.
Also, claims like the banner carrier from Westpac stadium was refused entry is just wrong. It’s time for everyone to take a deep breath.