Published 15 hours ago • loading... • Updated 1 hour ago
Hampshire face backlash after naming controversial Kuggeleijn in squad
Hampshire Cricket announced on Wednesday that Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the Club following intense criticism from fans regarding the New Zealand player, who was previously acquitted of sexual assault at Hamilton District Court.
Kuggeleijn had signed for the final four games of the Rothesay County Championship, but faced scrutiny over his 2017 trial at Hamilton District Court, where he was found not guilty after a previous trial ended with a hung jury.
Scores of cricket fans took to social media to criticize the decision, with supporters and Club employees voicing strong opposition behind the scenes. The prospect of protests or boycotts emerged online, prompting internal concerns.
Currently bottom of Division One, Hampshire sits 16 points behind Leicestershire as the team faces a critical stage. The Club stated its focus now turns to supporting the team through the final four County Championship fixtures.
Pacer Kuggeleijn has represented the New Zealand team in all three formats, though he last played for the Kiwis in 2024. Hampshire called for unity as the team enters this crucial campaign stage.