Advertisement

The last few days have been nothing short of a nightmare for Ollie Robinson with his ‘racist and sexist’ tweets resurfacing on social media and proving to be a detriment just as his international career looked set for lift off. 

The England player was suspended by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) from all international cricket on June 7 and faces disciplinary investigation for tweets he posted in 2012 and 2013 as a teenager.

The 27-year old took seven wickets on his Lord’s debut and scored a fighting 42 in the first innings to prevent the Kiwis from enforcing a follow-on. 

However, instead of basking in the memories of his impressive and impactful debut for England, Robinson finds himself immersed in a controversy that threatens to ruin his career. He has been asked to leave the England camp and return to his country, Sussex.

Robinson has since apologised profusely for his immature behaviour which dates back to almost a decade. Players, commentators, and people from outside the cricketing world have come forward to share their views and show their support for Robinson.

Indian all-rounder Ravinchandran Ashwin tweeted he felt genuinely sorry for the England player and also said how social media can have an impact on oneself. 

Harsha Bhogle also felt there was a need for investigation with a larger picture in sight, referring to the surroundings that can mould such opinions.

The sympathy and support wasn’t just confined to the sporting fraternity though. UK’s Culture Minister Oliver Dowden has condemned the punishment terming it as ‘over the top’.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson also offered his support to Robinson. A spokesman for Mr Johnson said, “The PM is supportive of Oliver Dowden’s comments. As Dowden set out, these were comments made more than a decade ago written by someone as a teenager and for which they’ve rightly apologised.” 

Former UK Member of Parliament George Freeman also took to social media to voice his concerns, opposing Robinson’s suspension.

Featured photo: Adrian Dennis / AFP 

Advertisement